MCC exec lauds RP press freedom

MANILA, Philippines – The pervasive media reports on corruption in the Philippines reflect a vibrant freedom of expression and do not denigrate the country’s eligibility for development assistance, according to Ambassador John Danilovich, chief executive officer of the Millennium Challenge Corp. (MCC).

“To have a completely silent media would be more troubling,” Danilovich said in response to questions at a roundtable discussion
at the Philippine Consulate General in New York if reports of massive corruption could threaten the country’s bid for MCC assistance.

The Philippine Consulate General New York, in coordination with the Philippine Embassy Washington D.C., hosted a roundtable discussion with MCC to discuss the Philippines’ eligibility to apply for an MCC poverty-reduction grant or compact assistance. Consul General Cecilia Rebong moderated the discussion.

A compact is a multi-year agreement between the MCC and an eligible country for funding assistance for specific anti-poverty programs.

In his presentation, Danilovich explained the MCC’s eligibility process, which involves consultations with key stakeholders. A country seeking eligibility should meet certain criteria like good governance.

In 2007, the MCC gave the Philippines a positive grade and cited the country’s accomplishments in fighting corruption, which involve strengthening the Office of the Ombudsman as well as improving revenue administration, among others.

Finance Secretary Margarito Teves leads the country in its effort to secure a compact with the MCC.

As an eligible country, the Philippines is now beginning the process of applying for a large-scale grant.

“In any case, the Philippines passed on 14 of 17 indicators used, which included security and corruption, and now can look forward to the next step of the program,” Danilovich said.

Danilovich stressed it is the Philippine government which should submit the grant proposal, following a consultative process involving key sectors. – Pia Lee-Brago