Why Australia is hot on De la Cruz case.

(From Philippine Daily Inquirer)

Byline: Raul J. Palabrica

THERE'S more than meets the eye in the strong criticism by Australia of the decision of the Philippine government to pull out its humanitarian contingent from Iraq in exchange for the release of Angelo de la Cruz.

In gross violation of the rules of diplomacy, Australia used the media, rather than diplomatic channels, to question the Philippines' resolve to cooperate in the effort to fight international terrorism. For a country that has not directly suffered the horrors of war, Australia had the gall to lecture the Philippines on bravery and heroism. It's like a deserter teaching the virtues of sacrifice to a combat soldier.

Now, the country "Down Under" is claiming its safety has been compromised by President Macapagal-Arroyo's acceding to the demands of the kidnappers of De la Cruz. While the United States has tempered its rhetoric on the issue, Australia has become more popish than the Pope. It is blaming the Philippines for the continuing kidnap activities of Iraqi militants. It has conveniently forgotten that it was the United States that invaded Iraq and that the militants' actions are in retaliation for that intrusion.

Australia's insulting comments on the handling of the De la Cruz hostage problem were not mere outbursts; they were deliberate. The Australian officials who badmouthed the Philippines were fully aware of the implications of their undiplomatic remarks.

Regional clout