US withholds aid package to Philippines

The United States has withheld a major aid package to the Philippines because of significant concerns about the rule of law under President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration, said Molly Koscina, spokeswoman of the US Embassy in the Philippines on December 15.
US withholds aid package to Philippines ảnh 1Anti-drug campaigns in the Philippines (Photo: Bussiness Insider)

Hanoi (VNA) – The UnitedStates has withheld a major aid package to the Philippines because ofsignificant concerns about the rule of law under President Rodrigo Duterte’sadministration, said Molly Koscina, spokeswoman of the US Embassy in thePhilippines on December 15.

The Millennium Challenge Corporation(MCC), a US agency which was set up to promote economic growth and reducepoverty around the world, will continue monitoring upholding events in theSoutheast Asian country, she added.

She also underscored that all countrypartners are expected to maintain eligibility, which includes not just apassing scorecard but also a demonstrated commitment to the rule of law, dueprocess and respect to human rights.

The last MCC five – year aid package tothe Philippines worth 433.9 million USD expired in May. 

Recently, the US has strongly criticisedthe Philippines’ anti-drug campaigns that were reported to kill more than 3,300people since President Duterte took office on June 30. 

The US – Philippines relations hasbecome more complicated recently after President Duterte provoked his anger atWashington’s criticism on the drug wars in the Philippines.-VNA

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