Press Release
March 10, 2009

Press Statement of Senator Loren Legarda

On ADB report that world markets had lost $50 trillion

The export market is down, more people are losing their jobs, and forecasts for an economic rebound ranges from an optimistic 18 months to a downright depressing five years. This report by the ADB, of the global economy losing $50 trillion and Asia $9.6 trillion, is yet another affirmation of the depth of the worldwide economic downturn.

But we must roll with the punches to survive. We must go back to the basics and ensure our country's food sufficiency by focusing on agriculture and fisheries, as well as poultry and livestock production. Those from the rural areas who had tried their luck in the cities to no avail should be encouraged to return to the provinces where there is livelihood as our country is rich in arable lands and other natural resources.

What we need as a people is a dramatic shift in our mindset and lifestyle. We must buy Filipino, try to live within our means and have a can-do attitude. If the world prospered after the Great Depression of the 1930s and the World War II that followed, there's no reason why our generation cannot go over this slump.

On grizzly slay of NPA leader's daughter

Those behind the horrific murder of an NPA leader's daughter must be immediately identified and prosecuted for their beastly deed. With the NPA alleging that soldiers committed the crime, I fear this might deteriorate to a tit-for-tat scenario between the military and the rebel movement.

I, thus, appeal to all not to allow the escalation of conflict over this dastardly crime for, after all, we are united by the desire to bring the criminals behind the slay of Rebelyn Pitao before the bar of justice."

On COA confirming road fund misuse

This matter must be thoroughly investigated by the Senate as it concerns misuse of the road users' tax and possible violations of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act and the Reformed Government Procurement Act. I am urging the Commission on Audit to cause the filing of appropriate cases relating to its finding of the misuse of this fund.

Those responsible for the reported misuse of some P50 billion of the road users' tax must be held accountable. We are talking here not just of millions of pesos possibly lost to graft and corruption, but billions of pesos in taxpayers' money. In case of involved public officials, we must hold them accountable for the crime of plunder.

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