Gonzales says corruption has become a 'national security threat'

MANILA (AP) - Corruption has become so widespread it has eroded public trust in Philippine President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo's government, and should now be considered a top security concern, a top security official said Thursday.

National Security Adviser Norberto Gonzalez said he would urge Arroyo's Cabinet to regard corruption _ and the country's chaotic political rivalries _ as top security threats that impede economic development and should be handled with a more comprehensive solution.

"I'm raising corruption as a national security threat," Gonzalez said. "It has become the system in the country."

He said that while the magnitude of corruption would not likely threaten the stability of Arroyo's government, it has eroded public trust in her administration and in crucial institutions like the Commission on Elections.

Gonzalez also said the commission should be revamped "from the janitor to the top" to bring back its integrity before crucial village elections this month.

Many elections officials have been accused of vote-rigging. In 2005, compact discs emerged containing purported phone calls between Arroyo and an elections commissioner, discussing how to ensure a million-vote victory margin for her in the 2004 presidential election. Both denied any wrongdoing.

Gonzalez said he has begun a study of loopholes in government systems that allow graft, and has called on bureaucrats to help him.

Arroyo's government has been hit by a series of scandals in recent weeks, prompting opposition lawmakers to renew calls for her to resign.