Ermita: Withholding of MCC aid calls for more action vs corruption

MANILA, Philippines - Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita on Monday said the withholding of the multimillion dollar grant of Millennium Challenge Corp. (MCC) was a reminder to the government to act on the corruption problems in the Philippines. Ermita’s remark came following reports that the MCC has withheld its $21 million grant agreement to the Philippines aimed at bolstering the government’s anti-corruption drive. In a press statement, MCC said the Philippines is still eligible for developing a compact proposal but emphasized the board will not sign a compact until the country passes the indicator criteria on corruption. Ermita said although the decision of the MCC was a wake-up call, what’s important is that the MCC still considers the country eligible for the grant. He said the consideration was “on the condition that the Philippines submit its anti-corruption programs subject to the Philippines satisfying the MCC's anti-corruption standards.” The information was relayed to him through US Envoy to the Philippines Kristie Kenney, Ermita said, adding that the US ambassador even even congratulated the government for being “re-selected.” According to Ermita, he has not yet spoken with the President on the matter, but said he was sure that she was aware of the "context" of the MCC statement. He added that the President has been prodding economic managers and other Cabinet officials concerned on the requirements that need to be submitted to the MCC. - Aie Balagtas See, GMANews.TV