Morales cites Philippine gains vs graft at UN conference

MANILA, Philippines - Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales highlighted the country’s gains and major achievements in the fight against graft at the 6th Conference of States Parties to the UN Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC) in St. Petersburg, Russia.

As head of the Philippine delegation, she delivered the Philippine statement to over 1,500 representatives of 160 signatory states and more than 60 heads of national anti-corruption agencies in the conference held this week.

Highlights include the Integrity Management Program of 2014, the Anti-Corruption Plan of 2015-2018 and passage of legislation that strengthened the anti-corruption court Sandiganbayan. All the efforts have gained international recognition.

Citing the country’s new ranking in the most recent Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) of Transparency International, Morales pointed out that “in a span of five years, among the 174 countries surveyed, the Philippines’ ranking has improved by 54 notches, from 139th place in 2009 to 85th place in 2014.”

She emphasized that “we cannot afford to pause and lose momentum. We celebrate our gains, but our optimism is tempered by the problems that persist, as well as challenges that may emerge.”

Morales also drew the connection between economic development and the fight against corruption, noting that the Philippines recognizes the vital role of the rule of law and accountable governance in economic development.