ShareThisMANILA – Possibly feeling the pressure from Congress leaders, United States Ambassador to Manila Harry Thomas Jr. apologized for his remarks that 40 percent of male tourists visiting the Philippines come only for sex tourism.
Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario disclosed that he received a text message from Thomas who expressed regret over his statement.
“I am sending you a response expressing regret for my comments. I should not have used the 40 percent statistics without the ability to back it up,” Thomas said. “I regret any harm that I may have caused.”
Philippine senators and congressmen have threatened to deport Thomas or declare him a persona non grata for his remarks.
The Department of Tourism and other officials also assailed Thomas for his “irresponsible” remarks.
Thomas earlier said he would not apologize over his remark about prostitution in the country and stressed he was only telling the truth.
Thomas challenged critics to show what they should have done and their efforts in stopping child prostitution and human trafficking in the country.