Philippine Defense Secretary Resigns Over Appointment
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MANILA — New Philippine President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo confronted coup rumors by telephoning a general Thursday, the same day that her defense secretary announced his resignation.
Orlando Mercado’s departure was a blow to Arroyo’s administration, especially since she has made clean government a top priority. Her predecessor, Joseph Estrada, was forced out last week amid allegations that he amassed a fortune through bribes and kickbacks.
Although Mercado had planned to resign by Feb. 12 to run for the Senate, his decision to leave early underscored the country’s deep political divisions.
He said he was resigning over Arroyo’s appointment of Lisandro Abadia as national security advisor. Mercado alleged that Abadia was tainted by a military corruption scandal four years ago.
At a news conference, Arroyo said she had called Marine Lt. Gen. Edgardo Espinosa and determined that the coup rumors were untrue.
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