Czech envoy seeks justice

MANILA, Philippines - The ambassador of the Czech Republic went on television yesterday to openly accuse Metro Rail Transit III general manager Al Vitangcol III of involvement in an alleged $30-million extortion attempt.

“I want only justice,” Czech Ambassador Josef Rychtar told GMA News’ 24 Oras. “I’m convinced that I have truth behind me.”

The TV interview was held at the official residence of the ambassador in Forbes Park, Makati, where the attempt to extort $30 million from officials of Czech railway firm Inekon allegedly took place in 2011.

An earlier report said Vitangcol allegedly wanted Inekon to form a join venture with a company where his sister is involved.

Inekon, which sought a government-to-government contract for the supply of the MRT cars, rejected the demand for $30 million even when it was reportedly reduced to $2 million.

The Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) later decided to hold a public bidding for the supply contract, effectively shutting out a government-to-government deal. After reviewing the requirements, Inekon refused to participate in the bidding.

The lone pre-qualified bidder was China’s CNR Dalian Locomotive & Rolling Stock Co. Ltd., which offered to produce 48 light rail vehicles for P3.759 billion. The deal is on hold amid questions raised on the capability of the company to supply the trains.

Rychtar reiterated to GMA News that he had informed Transport Secretary Joseph Abaya about the extortion attempt, which allegedly took place when Mar Roxas was DOTC chief.

Reacting to the complaint, Abaya openly questioned Rychtar’s “agenda” and later allowed Vitangcol to return to work from voluntary leave.

In response to a question from GMA News, Rychtar expressed belief that Vitangcol “is covered and protected” by influential individuals.

“I think he was behind this corruption,” Rychtar said, referring to Vitangcol.

The Czechs have submitted statements to the National Bureau of Investigation, which has reportedly completed its probe. The Department of Justice earlier denied that the NBI had cleared Vitangcol.

Rychtar, who is waiting for the results of the probe, has also talked with officials of the Department of Foreign Affairs.

DOTC officials said that in the absence of a formal complaint from the Czechs, they had no reason to pursue an administrative case against Vitangcol.