Palace hopes lawmaker, Deles to settle row amicably

MANILA, Philippines - Malacañang is hopeful that the reported differences between Presidential Adviser on Peace Process Teresita Deles and Lanao del Norte Rep. Fatima Aliah Dimaporo would be settled amicably.

“Differences between members of the Cabinet and the legislators are best threshed out and resolved amicably,” said Communications Group Secretary Herminio Coloma, when asked about the Palace’s take on a House resolution that called for Deles’ resignation.

“We are hoping that both sides will still find a common ground that will enable them to work together for the public interest,” he said. “We regret that their initial interaction has escalated into the passage of a House resolution.” 

Deles had insisted she did not offend the sensibilities of Dimaporo when she briefed her on questions regarding the Social Integration Program following the committee hearing on the 2011 proposed national budget last week.

“We take note that Secretary Deles has emphasized that she did not see herself to be in conflict with Rep. Dimaporo despite a contrary perception on the part of the latter,” Coloma said.

“Congresswoman Dimaporo and I had a cordial exchange of ideas on an issue that is close to our hearts,” Deles said.

“I was very glad to see that there is a young, intelligent Muslim woman leader who shares my passion for the peace process,” she added.

Deles, who posted her statement on the government portal www.gov.ph, said Dimaporo even sent her a text message thanking her for her replies during her interpellation and during their private conversation.

“She said that they agreed to continue their conversations even as Secretary Deles noted that in a follow-up text message, Congresswoman Dimaporo asked for books that Deles wrote on the peace process,” a portion of the news release stated.

Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte told government-run radio station dzRB that President Aquino has been “apprised of the situation” and that they (Palace officials) would rather wait for him to make his statement on the matter.

“It is unfortunate that the House resolution calling for her resignation comes in such a time where most of the Filipinos are ready to support the peace process. Let’s wait for the President to make his reaction on the issue,” she said.

Congressmen collectively approved a House resolution calling on Deles to resign after she allegedly insulted Dimaporo at the sidelines of the budget deliberations at the plenary late Friday.