Arroyo to announce resignation from Lakas-Kampi

MANILA, Philippines - President Arroyo and other leaders of the Lakas-Kampi-CMD are expected to formally announce their resignation from their posts in the ruling party today to make way for a new set of officers.

A ranking party official who requested anonymity said Mrs. Arroyo, Lakas chair, will make the announcement during the meeting of the party’s national executive committee in Malacañang.

Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita, Lakas president, and Presidential Adviser for Political Affairs Gabriel Claudio, Lakas secretary-general, are also expected to file their resignations. They temporarily assumed their positions following the merger of Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD) and Kabalikat ng Malayang Pilipino (Kampi).

Their replacements will be elected during the party’s national convention on Nov. 19.

The Palace earlier announced that administration standard-bearer Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro will take over as chair.

Ermita and Claudio, however, could be elected to remain in their posts.

Mrs. Arroyo will also finalize the agenda of the national convention that may include the party’s possible merger with other parties like the Nationalist People’s Coalition (NPC).

Lakas may also finally decide on its vice presidential candidate.

Once resigned as Lakas chair, the President will serve as “senior adviser” to the party.