KNP denies unity talks with Arroyo

The Koalisyon ng Nagkakaisang Pilipino (KNP) denied yesterday that negotiations are underway between the administration and the opposition for possible unification.

"There is no truth to the report. Whoever is claiming to represent Fernando Poe Jr. or the KNP in the so-called negotiations is not authorized to do so," Susan Tagle, head of the FPJ Communications Group, said in a statement released to the media.

A source told The STAR the other day that people close to the two presidential contenders were spotted playing golf in an exclusive country club in Metro Manila, one of whom reportedly admitted that there were efforts to unify the two camps.

A ranking Cabinet official and Lakas-CMD (Christian-Muslim Democrats) party official and a close friend and movie producer of Poe allegedly were involved in the "unity talks."

KNP spokesman, former representative Mike Romero, told The STAR that unity will happen only "by the time there’s a clear lead, whether it is Poe or President Arroyo."

Romero emphasized that the role of Congress is crucial in forging unity and reconciliation in the country. "Especially if the canvassing is done properly and the opposition is given its due in showing the evidence of cheating, which we have exposed, then unity will follow," Romero said.

Tagle added that the KNP is standing by "FPJ’s Statement of Commitment to the Filipino People" published in newspapers last May 31. In the advertisement, Poe said that as the nation completes its electoral journey "we should unite behind the duly elected leaders who will steer us in the difficult and trying times ahead."

Tagle, however, emphasized the word "duly elected," which she said means that "the leaders to be proclaimed should be the ones really elected by the people as freely and truly expressed by them through the ballot box."

Meanwhile, the reclusive Poe is making his presence felt only through advertisements. After the print ad, Tagle disclosed that radio ads may soon be aired but these have yet to be produced.

Tagle added that Poe has been "busy holding meetings." The opposition presidential candidate is also scheduled to privately visit local leaders in different parts of the country "to express his thanks for their support."

There are no plans yet to invite the national media to cover these visits, Tagle said.