MANILA, Philippines – When he took over as PBA Commissioner last year, Angelico “Chito” Salud made clear his stand regarding the trade of players: No one-sided deals. True to his word, Salud disapproved the trade proposal between Air21 and San Miguel Beer involving six players, which he deemed unfair.
And for his firm stand, two PBA coaches, an owner and a team official were impressed with the commissioner.
“I’m sure commissioner Salud is just being fair, bringing parity to the league,” Alaska team manager Joaqui Trillo told the Bulletin Tuesday in a telephone interview. “I think he studied very well the trade proposal and, maybe he saw something to disapprove it.”
The Express and the Beermen tried to swap players, with SMB hoping to deal veterans Danny Seigle, Mick Pennissi and Joseph Yeo as well as two future picks for Air21 rookies Noy Baclao, Rabeh Al-Hussaini and Rey Guevarra.
However, Salud deemed the trade as not equal as it “obviously favors” one team.
“I’m glad he’s living up to what he said. I’m happy for him. I hope he continue in making decision like this,” Talk ’N Text coach Chot Reyes said.
When the PBA opened its 36th Season last October, Salud, who replaced Renauld “Sonny” Barrios, said: “Only equal player trades will be allowed. My trademark is to create a level playing field. I promise you (fans) that we will do our part, and we will fulfill all expectations.”
Rain or Shine mentor Yeng Guiao said he experienced how Salud worked when the Painters decided to part ways with Jay-Arr Reyes and Sol Mercado, who are considered team leaders of the Elasto Painters.
“Based on experience, when we were formalizing the deal, which needs the commissioner’s approval, he called me up and asked me if I’m happy with the deal. I told the commissioner we are happy with the trade,” he said.
Salud also called Terry Que – one of the co-team owners of Rain or Shine – asking him the same question.
According to Guiao and Que, Salud was hesitant at first in deciding the three-team trade when they dealt Mercado and Reyes, in exchange for Beau Belga from Meralco, and Ronjay Buenafe and Ronnie Matias from Air21.
“I think I was able to convince him,” said Guiao, whose team currently holds a perfect 2-0 record in the Commissioner’s Cup.
“I give my full trust to the commissioner. He knows what is best for the league. I’m sure he put the interest of the league first,” Guiao added.
Waylon Galvez, Manila Bulletin
