Gonzalez back at DOJ

After hurdling a life-threatening kidney transplant last September, Justice Secretary Raul Gonzalez appeared yesterday at the Department of Justice and announced that he is returning to work.

“Be advised that I have re-assumed my office as Secretary of Justice effective Nov. 16, 2007,” read Gonzalez’s memorandum to DOJ officials.

“In this regard, you are hereby directed to attend a meeting scheduled on November 19, 2007, 11 a.m. at the DOJ Executive Lounge, Department of Justice Compound, P. Faura St., Manila.”

Gonzalez was rushed to Victor R. Potenciano Medical Center in Mandaluyong last Aug. 3 after he vomited blood.

He was confined for treatment of bleeding ulcers and discharged three days later.

Gonzalez underwent a kidney transplant operation at the National Kidney and Transplant Institute, with a kidney donated by his long-time driver, Felicito Gunay.

Acting Justice Secretary Agnes Devanadera will return to her post as Solicitor General.     – Mike Frialde