Gov't, OPEC sign P1.2b loan
Monday, January 30, 2023 | 1270 Views |
Peggy Serame shaking hands with Dr Abdulhamid Alkhalifa after signing the loan documents PIC: PHATSIMO KAPENG
The $100 million (about P1.2 billion) loan is meant to support the government’s efforts through the strengthening of its pandemic and crisis response, addressing the regulatory constraints for private sector recovery as well as building the foundations for a sustainable green economy.
Speaking at signing ceremony, the Minister of Finance, Peggy Serame said the country is experiencing budgetary shortfalls that need to be financed largely through borrowing, hence the need of the funding from the OPEC.
When claims of such gravity are made, especially by a sitting Assistant Minister they cannot be brushed aside, delayed, or treated as routine political noise. Even the Ombudsman has confirmed receipt of a report from a political party and a review of these complaints is now underway. That is a necessary first step. But it is only the beginning. The seriousness of the allegations demands urgency, transparency and clarity. The public is entitled to...