Press statement of Senator M.A. Madrigal on World Bank

It is appalling that the Philippine Senate has to subpoena the World Bank in order to gain its cooperation. Need we remind the World Bank that they are not above Philippine law.

Should the World Bank continue to refuse to appear in the on-going investigation, I shall seek to have them declared them persona non grata and their country director expelled from the country.

Their brazen arrogance and blatant refusal to cooperate is condemnable. The sovereignty and integrity of the Filipino people must be defended at all cost. We cannot allow World Bank officials to pass judgment without revealing their justification.

The Philippine Senate has been more than patient. Let the people be reminded that the World Bank has been the subject of major corruption charges from within and without in recent years. Let he who has no sin cast the first stone.

We ask," has the World Bank really made a difference in alleviating poverty or have their officials merely helped themselves."

I challenge Mrs. Arroyo to follow the example of the Ecuadorian President who expelled the World Bank country director in 2007 for blackmailing their government. It is time to take a stand. The World Bank cannot continue to insult the Filipino people.