Philippine gov’t lawyers eye Landing international land lease contract review

The Philippine’s Department of Justice will scrutinize the “flawed” casino land lease deal that the government entered with Hong Kong-listed casino operator Landing International Development Ltd (LIDL), the Philippine Star reported.

Philippine Justice Secretary Menardo Guevara has reportedly tapped the country’s Office of the Government Corporate Counsel (OGCC) to conduct a review on the controversial $1.5 billion agreement, including the re-evaluation of other documents related to the project. Guevera’s own legal staff will also conduct its parallel investigation, according to justice secretary.

“I have instructed the OGCC to immediately review all the relevant facts and re-evaluate and examine all contracts, agreements and other documents pertaining to this questioned transaction, including the legal opinions previously rendered by the Office of the Government Corporate Counsel to its client, Nayong Pilipino Foundation Inc.,” Guevarra said in a statement, according to the news outlet.

Meanwhile, state regulator Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) warned that LIDL’s provisional gaming license may be revoked if the land lease deal will be proven anomalous.