‘No government execs spotted leaving Philippines

MANILA, Philippines —  No government officials have been spotted leaving the country from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, according to NAIA personnel.

Last year, airport personnel observed some politicians and their families spending the holidays in Singapore, Hong Kong, Europe and the United States.

Airport staff yesterday held a simple Christmas celebration, in compliance with President Marcos’ directive to observe modesty in solidarity with Filipinos affected by recent calamities.

Bureau of Immigration spokesperson Dana Sandoval said some BI personnel joined the gathering virtually, showing unity and commitment to public service.

“The true spirit of Christmas is found in service, which is rendered quietly, honestly and consistently, even in difficult circumstances,” BI chief Joel Anthony Viado said.

The President has promised to put in prison before Christmas persons involved in anomalous flood control deals.

While consecutive typhoons hit the country, some members of Congress, public works engineers and contractors have been implicated in kickbacks and budget insertions.

In November, the Department of the Interior and Local Government investigated 24 local officials, mostly mayors, over foreign trips during the onslaught of Typhoon Uwan.