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Manila Bulletin devider Business devider MCC cites PH's renewed commitment to human rights

MCC cites PH's renewed commitment to human rights

Published Dec 18, 2023 06:21 am

At A Glance

  • The Millennium Challenge Corp. (MCC) has commended the Philippines for showcasing a renewed commitment to enhancing governance, human rights, and anti-corruption efforts.<br>Alice Albrigh, MCC CEO, confirmed that the Philippines has achieved threshold eligibility, denoting that the country has successfully met the rigorous standards set by the US in the areas of governance, anti-corruption measures, and democratic rights.<br>On Dec. 13, the MCC announced the selection of the Philippines and Tanzania to participate in threshold programs, which are smaller grant initiatives specifically designed to facilitate policy and institutional reforms that address constraints to economic growth.<br>Finance Secretary Benjamin E. Diokno expressed his welcome for the Philippines' eligibility under the MCC Threshold Program, expressing hope that this will provide the opportunity to further access the larger Compact Program.<br>In 2016, the MCC did not renew its aid package to the Philippines due to "significant concerns" about the rule of law under the Duterte administration.

The Millennium Challenge Corp. (MCC), a US foreign aid agency, said the Philippines has demonstrated renewed commitment to improve governance, human rights, and fighting corruption.

In a statement, Alice Albrigh, MCC chief executive officer, said that Philippines has met threshold eligibility, signifying that the country has met rigorous US standards in governance, anti-corruption efforts, and democratic rights.

Last Dec. 13, the US foreign aid agency announced the selection of the Philippines and Tanzania to implement threshold programs, which are smaller grant initiatives designed to facilitate policy and institutional reforms addressing constraints to economic growth.

The MCC also picked Cabo Verde as newly eligible to create a compact for the purpose of regional economic integration.

“The Board’s selection of Cabo Verde, the Philippines, and Tanzania advances MCC’s mission to forge strong partnerships with countries that have demonstrated a commitment to democratic governance, investing in their people, and economic freedom,” Albright said.

“We look forward to building on prior partnerships and working hand in hand with each country to advance prosperity for their people,” she added.

The Philippines and Tanzania are both former MCC compact partners.

The MCC cited the renewed commitment of both countries to advance critical reforms in strengthening democratic governance, protecting human rights, and combating corruption in recent years.

“In recognition of these efforts, MCC’s Board selected the Philippines and Tanzania to partner with MCC in the development of threshold programs that focus on the policy and institutional reforms countries can undertake to reduce poverty and generate economic growth,” MCC said.

On Sunday, Finance Secretary Benjamin E. Diokno welcomed the eligibility of the Philippines under the MCC Threshold Program, which “we hope will allow us to further access the bigger Compact Program.”

The MCC was established by the US Congress to invest in well-governed countries by offering time-limited grants that promote economic growth, reduce poverty, and strengthen institutions.

“We appreciate the MCC Board’s approval of the selection of the Philippines’ eligibility to the grant-based resources of the US MCC,” he added.

In 2016, the MCC did not renew its aid package to the Philippines due to "significant concerns" about the rule of law under the Duterte administration.

Manila previously received $434 million in support through the MCC's first Compact grant, which ended in 2016, and an earlier $20.7 million threshold grant implemented from 2006 to 2009.

Diokno said that MCC's decision to re-engage with the Philippines shows confidence in the Marcos administration's commitment to strengthening democratic governance, upholding human rights, and combating corruption.

“The Philippine government stands ready to work hand in hand with the US Government towards developing and implementing important programs that will unlock growth in the Philippines and redound to economic and social transformation for all Filipinos,” he said.

Related Tags

Millennium Challenge Corp. (MCC) Finance Secretary Benjamin E. Diokno
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