World | Philippines
Arroyo's reported $20,000 dinner tab draws sharp criticisms
Philippine lawmakers have lashed out against a reported $20,000 dinner bill racked up by the president and an entourage on a New York visit last week.
- AP
- Published: 19:36 August 10, 2009
Manila: Philippine lawmakers have lashed out against a reported $20,000 dinner bill racked up by the president and an entourage on a New York visit last week.
A report by the New York Post's online edition Friday said President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo was at the Le Cirque restaurant in Manhattan with a large group "enjoying the good life." Arroyo reportedly ordered several bottles of very expensive wine, pushing the dinner tab up to $20,000.
About a third of the Philippine population of 90 million lives on less than $2 a day.
Arroyo's spokesman, Cerge Remonde, called the report "exaggerated," saying their group of less than 30 Philippine officials had a "simple late night dinner" from a set menu that included soup, salad, a choice of fish or meat, and a choice of drinks.
Your comments
I don't mind if my President with her entourage incurred a bill of $20K on 1 dinner. First of all, its not her who paid the bill nor government funds. It's a small amount compare to others. If they were almost 30 persons, then it means less than a $1K each, not so expensive at all for a president. If I have the oppurtunity and got $20K, I'll do the same and treat my president for an expensive dinner.
Armidah
Malabon,Philippines
Posted: August 11, 2009, 17:49
Very insensitive!
Gloria resign!!!
Ronaldo Gabaldon
Dubai,UAE
Posted: August 11, 2009, 17:46
our president is so insensitive with the current situation our country and fellow filipinos are experiencing right now. what's in the offing for all of us filipino!
Rontonton
Dubai,UAE
Posted: August 11, 2009, 16:57
It depends on the headcount.
Ricky
Dubai,UAE
Posted: August 11, 2009, 16:20
I work for a reputable company here and when my boss went with team to london they spent $21k on dinner with some others from the team.
From A Reader
Dubai,UAE
Posted: August 11, 2009, 13:27
what a shame... she do not even think her millions of our fellow unfortunate pilipinos in the philippines who suffered hunger and starvation. She just enjoying the money of the people. tsk.tsk.tsk
Dinanahiya
Abu Dhabi,UAE
Posted: August 11, 2009, 11:10
It's truly a luxurious
Juan OFW
Dubai,UAE
Posted: August 11, 2009, 10:13
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