After 'sex' commentary, U.S. Ambassador told to show proof

29 May 2011: US Ambassador to the Philippines Harry Thomas Jr. gestures during the celebration of Memorial Day at the Manila American Cemetery in Taguig City, south of Manila. (Photo by Mike Alquinto/ NPPA Images)

(UPDATE) Lawmakers have warned U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines Harry Thomas to watch his words or show proof on his supposed remark that almost half of foreign male tourists in the Philippines are merely after sex.

"I hope the American ambassador can clarify his statement and explain where he got the statistics," Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile told reporters Wednesday.

Senator Franklin Drilon said he also disputes Thomas' statement.

"I certainly have not been shown the basis of that data. We challenge the correctness of that," Drilon said.

"It is unfortunate that he made such a public statement on the heels of President Benigno Aquino III's visit to the United States," Senator Francis Escudero said in an earlier released statement.

Addressing judicial officials last week, Thomas supposedly said: “We know that 40 percent of foreign men who come to the Philippines, including from the US, come for sexual tourism. That is not something I’m proud of. That’s not something you should be proud of.”

Escudero said this statement was "uncalled for," and his claims should have been channeled to proper government agencies.

"It is not for foreign entities to rate us or grade us or whether we pass their benchmark or not, especially when no bases are given," Escudero added.

Drilon said the government is serious in implementing laws against human trafficking.

While Enrile said Thomas' claims may be true, the envoy should at least explain where he got his numbers.

"We're not denying that there are American men who come to the Philippines to enjoy their lives because the Filipinas are attractive but I don't think his statistics are correct," said Enrile.

"Well, there are also many foreigners going to America to have sex with American girls and American boys. So, it works both ways. Even Filipinos go there to enjoy beauty of American women," added Enrile.

In a separate text message, Tina Malone, U.S. embassy press attache, said Thursday that Thomas' statement was based on "the work of U.S. officials."

"The Ambassador's statements during his speech to appellate court judges last week reflect US government estimates based on the work of US officials working with the Philippine authorities to close clubs that cater to pedophiles," she said.