GMA accepts Cruz resignation

President Arroyo accepted the resignation of Defense Secretary Avelino Cruz "with much regret," Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye said yesterday.

Bunye added that the President would act as defense secretary until a replacement is appointed.

"The President has accepted, with much regret, the resignation of Secretary Cruz. She is grateful for Secretary Cruz’s professionalism and key contributions in crucial areas of political, economic and security policy," Bunye said.

Bunye said Cruz would remain a trusted adviser of the President.

He said Cruz had told Mrs. Arroyo of his desire to go back to law practice upon the effectivity of his resignation on Nov. 30.

The President, in turn, told Cruz she would continue to seek his advice as the situation arises, Bunye said.

He said Mrs. Arroyo was sad to see Cruz leaving at the height of crucial defense reforms he had instituted in the military.

Bunye added it was unfortunate Cruz will be leaving when his Philippine Defense Reform (PDR) program is finally being implemented.

He said Mrs. Arroyo would appoint a replacement "who can carry that program forward with an equal sense of fervor and determination."

Reports said top contenders for the post include National Security Adviser Norberto Gonzales, Transportation Secretary Leandro Mendoza and Public Works Secretary Hermogenes Ebdane Jr.

Three congressmen are also being groomed for the post, according to sources at the House of Representatives.

Sources named the three lawmakers as Surigao del Sur Rep. Prospero Pichay, Pangasinan Rep. Amado Espino and Jose Solis of Sorsogon.

Pichay heads the House contingent in the Commission on Appointments (CA), the body empowered to approve or reject Cabinet appointments and major promotions in the military and the diplomatic service.

The Surigao lawmaker formerly presided over the House defense committee, now chaired by Solis.

Espino, on the other hand, chairs the committee on public order and security.

Unlike Pichay, both Solis and Espino are former military officers.