GMA snubs Gridiron Night

President Arroyo sent word yesterday she would not be available to attend the annual Gridiron Night by the National Press Club (NPC) at the Manila Hotel due to previously scheduled appointments.

Presidential spokesman and concurrent Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye told The STAR President Arroyo would be more than represented by all press-related officials led by himself.

"The entire press office would be there," Bunye said.

The President’s Appointments Office, headed by secretary Marilou Frostrom, cited "conflict of schedule" as the reason why President Arroyo could not grace the annual NPC Gridiron last night.

Since she took office at Malacañang in January 2001, Mrs. Arroyo and First Gentleman Jose Miguel Arroyo have never missed the annual event.

Meanwhile, the President is scheduled to meet American Idol finalist Jasmine Trias, who will pay a courtesy call at Malacañang this afternoon. – Marichu Villanueva