Long-time operator Vicente “Ben” Babauta was the lone bidder for bingo while Edward T. Sablan, was the only bidder for bato.
Both can start their operations immediately after the issuance of their permits although their licenses will take effect on July 1, Flores said.
“We can give them a temporary permit if they wish to start immediately,” he added.
Babauta and Sablan submitted their bids on April 14 with the required $300 non-refundable deposit for bingo license and $150 for bato.
The minimum bid for the bingo operation was $10,000. Babauta’s bid was $10,300. Sablan, for his part, didn’t go beyond the minimum bid of $2,000.
The bingo license is valid for five years while that of bato is good for two years only.
The opening of bids was witnessed by Henry Hofschneider, the mayor’s special adviser; Larissa Flores and Jeff Cabrera, staffers of the mayor; Teri Camacho, the mayor’s budget and management officer; and Victor Pangelinan.
In an interview, Babauta said he has been operating bingo since 1993.
He said he is planning to hold a bigger event of bingo games on television aside from the special events and the fundraising games to help the community.
“We will work hard to get the return of our investment,” he said.
Flores said he is hoping that both operators will continue to entertain the community.
