MANILA, Philippines — (Updated 12:46 p.m.) Malacañang on Tuesday announced the Philippines has withdrawn its application for a second aid package from US poverty reduction agency Millennium Challenge Corporation. "The decision to withdraw was because of the urgent priority of the administration to rebuild Marawi," presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said in explanation. Roque also made it clear the Philippines does not object to conditions imposed by the MCC in granting aid. The MCC had earlier approved a development grant for the Philippines, which was completed in 2016. Low MCC scores in controlling corruption, rule of lawIn November, it was reported that the Philippines received low scores on the Millennium Challenge Corporation Fiscal Year 2018 Scorecard in controlling corruption and ensuring rule of law.

Source: Philippine Star December 19, 2017 04:19 UTC