Bishop says Arroyo cannot be forced to resign

A Catholic bishop on Thursday said President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo cannot be forced to resign even if the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) last year, laid it as one of the options open to her to resolve the political crisis hounding her. Pampanga Archbishop Paciano Aniceto also advised the President "to listen more" and reach out to the country's political leaders to help reduce instability and divisiveness in the country. "She is duly-elected and so that (resignation) is her prerogative," Aniceto told reporters following a thanksgiving mass for the prelate’s 69th birthday celebration. "Resignation is one of the options mentioned by the CBCP," he said. He said the President can step down and subject herself to constitutional processes applicable to resolve issues raised against her. “But that’s her personal decision," he said. Aniceto met with Mrs. Arroyo in private for more than 10 minutes at the Mother of Good Counsel Seminary but he said issues on family and population, not politics, were discussed. The prelate told the Mrs. Arroyo that she “looked more relaxed." He said it might be because she has survived what Malacañang officials said was an attempted coup. Aniceto also sought to put an end to the so-called "Hello Garci" controversy. He said the CBCP does not have the technical expertise to pass a complete judgment on the controversy. He, however, said any report of "dishonesty" must be investigated. He also called on the country's political leaders to "leave behind personal interest" and to hold a dialogue with the President so that the country can move forward. "During this time of Lent, I hope all political leaders reflect on what they must do for the good of the people and of the country and not only focus their resources and time on personal agenda. Their priority must center on the common good, preferential option for the poor and service to the community," Aniceto said.-GMANews.TV