GMA off to Baguio for New Year

President Arroyo flew yesterday to Baguio City where she and the First Family will hold their traditional New Year’s Day celebration.

Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye said Mrs. Arroyo stopped by Dagupan City for a private lunch meeting before proceeding to Baguio.

An official schedule of Mrs. Arroyo released to the media by the office of Secretary Conrado Limcaoco, Cabinet Officer for Presidential Engagements, said she would swear into office the regional officers of the Cordillera Indigenous Elected Women Leaders’ League at the Mansion House in Baguio City at 10 a.m. on Dec. 29.

On Dec. 30, Mrs. Arroyo will lead the flag-raising and wreath-laying ceremonies in commemoration of Rizal Day at 7 a.m. at the Rizal Monument in Baguio City.

In brief remarks at the Christmas party of the Catholic charismatic group El Shaddai yesterday, Mrs. Arroyo called for national unity.

She thanked El Shaddai leader Bro. Mike Velarde for his support, and reiterated her proposal for a government of national unity with the opposition.

In her Christmas message, Mrs. Arroyo expressed hope that there would be "one Philippines."

Several weeks ago, Velarde and Iglesia ni Cristo Executive Minister Eraño Manalo called on political leaders to end their bickering. — Paolo Romero