BIZ BUZZ: ‘Airportserye’: Naia bidding delayed?

The P170.6-billion Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Naia) rehabilitation project appears to have hit some turbulence.

On Thursday afternoon, a representative from the Department of Transportation (DOTr) told the media that the board meeting of the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) had been rescheduled to Feb. 16.

It was supposed to convene on Feb. 15 to tackle the notice of award, which essentially finalizes the winning bid.

The DOTr representative said the MIAA meeting had been moved because the bids and awards committee was still having its own meeting as well.

Why? It is not yet clear, but the previous update was about the bidding documents being transmitted to the Naia operator for approval.

There is also raging speculation in business circles about attempts to disqualify the consortium led by San Miguel Corp., deemed the front-runner after submitting the highest proposed revenue share with the government.  The DOTr has yet to say the real reason but it did say that the new schedule for the press conference would be announced “as soon as MIAA board finishes its meeting.”

To think that the announcement of the winning bidder had already been delayed from the original schedule of Feb. 15.

Now, the question is: Will we still have the name of the Naia contract winner this week? Or do we need to wait a bit longer? Let’s see! —Tyrone Jasper C. Piad

MMD new Chinabank ambassador

China Banking Corp. founder Dee C. Chuan and former chair Dee K. Chiong must be smiling down from heaven as Miss Universe Philippines 2023 Michelle Marquez Dee (MMD) has been named the first brand ambassador of Chinabank in over a century.

The beauty titlist, actress, model and TV host said joining the Chinabank family was “something momentous” for her and everything that she stands for, and also a move that should certainly meet the approval of her granduncle and grandfather.

Chinabank CEO Romy Uyan said during the official signing ceremony on Valentine’s Day that the bank was excited about starting the auspicious Year of the Dragon with the signing of Dee.

“This engagement with Michelle Dee signifies the beginning of many exciting things to come. For us, Michelle is family. But beyond her obvious lineage to the bank’s cofounders, we firmly believe that Michelle has the qualities to aptly represent a bank with a storied history and an unwavering commitment to building an inclusive and sustainable future for every Filipino,” Uyan said.

He added: “We are very excited with our new partnership and I have no doubt this is going to be the start of a very beautiful and successful collaboration.” —Tina Arceo-Dumlao