Government information chief resigns

MANILA, Philippines - Philippine Information Agency (PIA) director general Conrado Limcaoco, one of the longest-serving and repeatedly recycled Cabinet secretaries serving President Arroyo, has resigned ahead of the expected departure of officials of the current administration on June 30.

Limcaoco said he resigned last Friday due to health reasons effective June 16. He refused to disclose the details of his health condition.

“I spoke with the President over the phone and she graciously accepted it,” Limcaoco said in a telephone interview. “It’s been a long, long run and it has been a privilege serving the President and the Filipino people.”

He said there were other matters that he and Mrs. Arroyo talked about but he did not elaborate.

Limcaoco, who served in various capacities, such as presidential adviser for ecclesiastical affairs, said there were no instructions for Cabinet officials to resign.

“In general, we will be free to wait until June 30 (to leave) or to be retained. The instruction is to mind our stores until we are all replaced. Mine (resignation) is voluntary, ahead of June 30 to attend to my health,” he said.

He said the transition procedures at the PIA were already prepared and reports for the incoming management have been completed.

“So what’s happening now (at PIA) is the daily grind, preparing the payroll. There are no new programs,” Limcaoco said.