MANILA— Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano on Monday said the event hosted by the Philippine embassy in Washington at the Trump International Tower to celebrate Independence Day was “aboveboard”.
Cayetano’s clarification came after a ranking member of the US Senate Committee on Foreign Relations questioned Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Manuel Romualdez on how much was spent for the party.
According to a news report, US Senator Bob Menendez demanded answers from the Philippine embassy on why the celebration was held at President Donald Trump’s business establishment.
The senator also requested a breakdown on the costs for food, beverages, service, and among others, clarification when the hotel submitted its invoice and when the payment was made.
“We’re reviewing if we’re allowed to give the details but everything is aboveboard,” Cayetano said.
He said the embassy holds annual celebration of the Philippine Independence Day, and believes there was no domestic law violated.
“We believe we didn’t break any law and we did not go there to influence the US. I mean, who can influence President Donald Trump? He’s very independent,” he said.
Cayetano said he will not comment on US policy, but noted he understands the US senator’s position.
“Of course that’s domestic issue for them so I’m not going to judge whether it’s correct or not, him asking (for a breakdown) because that’s their call.” (Joyce Ann L. Rocamora/PNA)
