“We are still waiting for the US Government to formally address the concerns that we have raised.  However, our own inquiries indicate that a US government agency, without the knowledge of the specific US agencies involved, had been responsible for asking the US Department of Justice to proceed with this criminal investigation.  If this is true, this is particularly disturbing,” she said.  “However, we are still open to hear the official response of the US Government on this issue.  I also remain confident that we will be able to resolve this issue to the satisfaction of all concerned,” the Secretary added.

 
On the issue of whether the subpoenaed Philippine telecoms officials would appear before the Grand Jury, the Secretary said that this is a matter that is up to the officials and their lawyers.  “In a few hours, the Grand Jury hearing will begin.  Our Consul General in Honolulu, Mr. Rolando Gregorio, has met with the telecoms officials and he told me that they have legal representation,” the Secretary said.

“Tomorrow the chief executive officers of the Philippine telecoms companies involved are calling on me.  I want to hear their views and see how best we can proceed on this matter.  We find common cause with them and are determined to
seek redress from the US Government,” Secretary Albert said, adding that the Philippines continues to proceed in good faith. END.