Andanar: Duterte admin ‘constantly condemns cronyism’

MANILA, Philippines — “The Duterte Administration has constantly and blatantly condemned cronyism in our society.”

Communications Secretary Martin Andanar said this Saturday as he dismissed claims of cronyism under Duterte government as “erroneous and highly deplorable.”

“Any claims and attacks being made in relation to this matter are by the opposition and by interest groups that are against the socio-economic policies and reforms by this administration,” Andanar added.

The Palace official said the administration does not tolerate cronyism, citing President Rodrigo Duterte’s dismay over two water firms’ “onerous” contracts with the state.

“And this commitment has always been consistent such in a way that this administration refuses to kowtow to the Metro Manila water concessionaires and its agreements with the previous administrations that have resulted in unfavorable repercussions not only to the government but also to Filipino consumers,” Andanar said in a statement.

Andanar was referring to Duterte’s criticisms of the disadvantageous 1997 water contracts of Manila Water Company and Maynilad Water Services Inc. Duterte also directed the water companies to create new water deals that is acceptable both for the government and the people.

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Edited by MUF