Gov't probes extortion against Czech firm

MANILA, Philippines (Xinhua) - The government vowed today to level playing field for all businessmen, including foreign investors, as investigation has been ongoing on the alleged extortion attempt targeting a Czech company by some transport officials.

Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda made the statement following allegations that some executives of the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) tried to extort $30 million from Inekon Group, a Czech firm, when the latter attempted to bid for the supply contract for Metro Rail Transit 3 (MRT 3) trains.

"There is no reason for us to doubt that this administration's purpose is to level the playing field, to allow foreign investments to come in," he said in a news briefing.

DOTC secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya said he already ordered a probe into the alleged extortion attempt by some of his executives against Inekon.

"We are already investigating the matter, and welcome any other investigations into this issue. The DOTC remains fully committed to a straight path," he said.

He also clarified that contrary to reports, Inekon was not blacklisted by the DOTC in joining the bidding of the MRT 3 Capacity Expansion Project.