Lorelei in freezer

MANILA, Philippines - For causing a stir with her statement that President Arroyo was keeping her friendship with the Ampatuans despite the Maguindanao massacre, deputy presidential spokesperson Lorelei Fajardo has apparently been sent to the freezer.

Fajardo, also presidential assistant for Central Luzon, clarified that she has decided to work full time in this post, a position she held for several years before she became one of the deputy presidential spokespersons.

Her statement that Mrs. Arroyo “would not turn her back on political allies even though they (Ampatuans) were in that situation” had generated widespread criticism.

The same issue on the President coddling the Ampatuans was raised during the recent congressional hearing on Proclamation 1959 or the declaration of martial law in Maguindanao.

Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita defended Fajardo, saying she was speaking in a personal capacity and that her attention was called about the gaffe.

Since issuing that statement, Fajardo has not been seen in any of the press briefings at Malacañang, prompting speculations that she was about to leave her post as deputy presidential spokesperson.

In a text message, Fajardo said she “chose to devote my full attention to governance issues in Region III where my services are most needed.”

“The administration constantly addresses various challenges and situations differently. Some of which call for a strategic realignment of priorities and resources,” she said.

“I was given a choice between serving as full time undersecretary of OPS (Office of the Press Secretary) and Presidential Assistant for Central Luzon. It’s my honor to serve Secretary (Cerge) Remonde, he’s been a good mentor and a friend,” she said.

Even during her stint as deputy presidential spokesperson, Fajardo had been busy with her functions as the PA for Region III.

“I welcome the opportunity to dedicate my undivided energy to the demands of this post. I will continue to serve at the President’s behest, in whatever capacity most satisfies her needs,” she said.

Because of this and the decision of the other deputy presidential spokesperson Anthony Golez to run for Congress as representative of Bacolod City, the President is left with just one other deputy spokesperson, Gary Olivar.

The daily briefings at the Palace are now presided over by Remonde, Ermita, and Olivar.