GMA has chosen new press secretary

By DOL FAJARDO
Malacanang Correspondent

MANILA - President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has already chosen her new Press Secretary which is an “insider” and is currently holding a position with a cabinet rank.

Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye, however, refused to reveal the identity of his successor but stressed that it will be announced on June 6, per request of the incoming Press Secretary.

The said date was coincidentally the third year anniversary of the Hello Garci scandal because it was on June 6,2006 when Bunye publicly showed the two Hello Garci CDs.

In an interview at the media forum at the Ambassador Hotel in Manila, Bunye said his successor was also the one he recommended to the President.

Reliable Palace sources, however, revealed that the next Press Secretary is a toss between Presidential Management Staff (PMS) chief, Secretary Cerge Remonde and Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza, the latter having the greater chance.

Meanwhile, Bunye said it is only him and outgoing secretary to the cabinet and incoming Civil Service Commission (CSC) Chairman Ricardo Saludo who will be transferred to a different position as he denied that a major cabinet revamp is in the offing.
Although the announcement would be made next month, Bunye said his successor will assume post on June 16 .

Bunye said he will assume as member of the Monetary Board on July 3 and has a fixed term that will end on July 2,2014.

It is not determined yet if Bunye’s successor will also serve as concurrent presidential spokesman or another individual will be appointed for the said position./PN