Nabuking kasi eh

From Malaya:

PRESIDENT Arroyo has ordered the cancellation of the controversial contract with a US-based lobby firm following criticism and strong opposition from several sectors, including her allies.

National security adviser Norberto Gonzales, who confirmed the cancellation in a text message yesterday, was one of the Cabinet officials who met Arroyo on her arrival shortly before 4 a.m. yesterday.

Pero hindi pa tapos ang iskandalo na ito.

Senate sets probe of P50M US lobby
Joker: Security adviser himself a security risk?

BY JP LOPEZ

IS national security adviser Norberto Gonzales becoming a national security risk?

Sen. Joker Arroyo yesterday said he is convening the Blue Ribbon committee this week to investigate the alleged irregular contract that Gonzales entered into on behalf of the Philippine government with a US lobby firm.

For a reported $75,000 a month or $900,000 (P50 million) for the 12-month contract, the government will pay the law firm Venable LLP to follow up on and secure grants or congressional earmarks to finance charter change initiatives of President Arroyo.

The amount excludes travel expenses and professional services which can easily double the contract cost.

Gonzales yesterday said he has recommended the cancellation of the contract and the President agreed to his recommendation. See Story on Col. 6.

Sen. Arroyo, committee chairman, said that Gonzales, as NSC head, is not authorized to enter into lobbying agreements.

"His function is to provide technical assistance to the NSC and advise the President on national security matters," he said.

"Under what authority, therefore did Secretary Gonzales enter into the Venable contract on behalf of the Philippine government? Did the NSC approve a resolution authorizing Secretary Gonzales? That would be alarming – charter change is alien to security matters. Is it possible that the NSC and the national security director are being used for partisan purposes, like charter change?" he asked.

Related:

- PCIJ: DESPITE HARD TIMES, GMA HIRES PRICY FOREIGN CONSULTANTS FOR CHARTER CHANGE