Tiger Resort, Leisure and Entertainment (TRLEI) has announced its intention to file criminal charges against its founder, Kazuo Okada, and his group for what it describes as the “illegal occupation” of its Okada Manila resort. The dispute stems from Kazuo Okada’s removal as CEO in 2017 due to alleged fund misappropriation, which led to a Philippine Supreme Court order reinstating him to the position in April.
However, TRLEI argues that the Supreme Court order does not apply to the company as its holding entity, Tiger Resort Asia, is based in Hong Kong. The resort operator accuses Okada’s group of forcibly entering and occupying the property, accompanied by police officers and security guards, and dismissing key employees without authority.
Background and Dispute:
In 2017, Kazuo Okada was removed from his role as CEO of Okada Manila following allegations of fund misappropriation. This action by the company laid the groundwork for a legal battle between Okada and TRLEI. Recently, the Philippine Supreme Court issued a status quo ante order, effectively reinstating Okada as CEO. However, TRLEI contests the applicability of the order, citing the company’s Hong Kong-based holding entity.
Illegal Occupation and Dismissal of Employees:
Tiger Resort and its parent company, Universal Entertainment, claim that Okada and his associates forcefully entered and occupied the Okada Manila resort. The operator alleges that Dindo Espeleta, accompanied by approximately 50 police officers and private security guards, led this incursion. TRLEI further accuses Espeleta of dismissing key employees without authority, compelling other employees to vacate the premises against their will.
Intended Legal Action:
TRLEI has stated its intent to file criminal charges against Okada and his group for a range of offenses, including trespassing, obstruction of business, unlawful occupation, theft, assault, injury, and incitement. The operator is committed to pursuing these charges in response to what it perceives as serious criminal actions committed against the company.
Jurisdictional Challenges and Company Structure:
The dispute surrounding Okada Manila is exacerbated by the complex jurisdictional dynamics involving the Philippine Supreme Court order and the Hong Kong-based holding company, Tiger Resort Asia. The clash between legal rulings and differing interpretations has added complexity to the ongoing conflict.
The conflict between Tiger Resort, Leisure and Entertainment and its founder, Kazuo Okada, has escalated with TRLEI’s decision to file criminal charges against Okada and his associates. The alleged “illegal occupation” of Okada Manila, accompanied by the dismissal of employees, has led to a contentious legal battle.
The dispute hinges on jurisdictional issues and the applicability of the Philippine Supreme Court order to the Hong Kong-based holding company. As the legal proceedings unfold, it remains to be seen how this conflict will impact the future of Okada Manila and the relationship between TRLEI and its founder.