The president’s plan for a presidential jet has been jettisoned as a number of people have expressed disapproval over the purchase. After reports that President Gloria Macapagal Arroyou and her cohorts have spent up to $20, 000 for one dinner at Le Cirque followed by a release of another $ 15, 000 worth of dinner at Bobby Van’s Steakhouse, it seems that the idea of a jet would be pushing the public’s outrage too far.

The $ 35,000 tab however was said to be a “treat” by two different people in celebration of the Arroyo’s anniversary. The amount in pesos would roughly translate to 1,700,000 worth. A staggering amount when viewed in light of the millions of Filipinos going hungry everyday all over the country.

The president’s spokesman Cerge Remonde announced the cancellation of Mrs. Arroyo’s order for the jet, alluding to the fact that the Palace wants no more of the “criticisms about her (Mrs. Arroyo’s) spending.

“I’m formally announcing that the Presidents has ordered the cancellation of the purchase of a presidential jet.” He said on the government-run Radyo ng Bayan.

The president has previously been criticized for her frequent travels abroad. The cost of commuting has probably been too much, prompting the government to shop for a presidential jet that could cost billions depending on the make. The financing of the jet was expected to come out of the 2009 budget. The cancelled order was originally for a “twin-engine, pressurized aircraft” and must be conforming to the International Civil Aviation Organization and Federal Aviation Administration standards.

Remonde has also mentioned that this was the second time a jet order was cancelled even though it has been recommended a number of times.

Reports are now being asked from the Palace regarding the president and her entourages stay in the United States during Mrs. Arroyo’s working-visit to US President Barack Obama. Remonde confirmed that the reports are being prepared and are underway.