MORE CHARACTERS IN ARROYO'S SINKING SHIP - Mrs. Arroyo is undecided on whether to submit the nomination of Department of Labor and Employment (DoLE) Secretary Patricia Sto. Tomas to the Commission on Appointments. Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Emilia Boncodin has indicated her wish to get out of government.
Cirio Santiago, a multi-awarded director and movie producer, and a close associate of Fernando Poe Jr., has been named chairman of the Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA). The son of Rizal Governor Ito Ynares is due to replace also as LLDA administrator possibly by floating Edgardo Manda.
Dr. Francisco Duque, PhilHealth president, is lobbying for his appointment as Secretary of Health.
Another "in" personality in Malacanang these days is DND Undersecretary Carolina Hernandez, a Feliciano Commission member. She got her husband appointed as a justice of the Sandiganbayan. That's why it is significant she had the temerity to write Congressman Luis "Baby" Asistio objecting to the proposal to grant amnesty to the Magdalo officers.
Estranged presidential pal Dante Arevalo Ang has forgiven Mrs. Arroyo and has agreed to serve as secretary of the Commission on Overseas Filipinos. Does this mean that VP Noli de Castro has been relieved of that job?