Aquino, in New York, Pledges Rule of Law in Philippines

Posted September 21st, 2011 at 5:38 am (UTC-5)
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Philippines President Benigno Aquino has told an international audience his government is committed to rooting out the deep-seated corruption that has slowed economic progress in his country.

Speaking to the Asia Society in New York Tuesday evening, Mr. Aquino said he is determined to change a culture in which dishonesty has long been the easiest path to success.

Mr. Aquino said his administration is already on the way to creating an environment in which foreigners will no longer hesitate to invest in the Philippines.

He also said his government is determined to protect an estimated 10 million Philippine citizens who have gone abroad in search of work. But he said his ultimate goal is to create jobs in the Philippines so they will not have to leave.

Mr. Aquino is the son of former President Corazon Aquino, who came to power in a “People Power” revolution that ousted longtime dictator Ferdinand Marcos in 1986. He was elected last year on an anti-corruption platform while accusing then President Gloria Arroyo of abuse of power.