PH among ‘candidate countries’ for 2018, says US aid agencyThe Philippines could once again benefit from US aid via the Millennium Challenge Corp. (MCC) following a 2016 deferral prompted by human rights concerns. In a report, the aid agency said the Philippines was among 66 “candidate countries for FY [fiscal year]2018 based on their per capita income levels and their eligibility to receive assistance under US law…”. The Millennium Challenge Act of 2003 sought to set up a new development assistance system, with countries to be selected based on several indicators. Factors considered include the country’s commitment to civil liberties, political rights and the rule of law. The so-called “compact” ended in May 2016 and the MCC board had announced the previous year that the country was eligible for a new package.

Source: Manila Times August 17, 2017 16:18 UTC