Saturday, June 25, 2005 (Philippines)

In Cebu, allies of President Arroyo lashed out at Rep. Clavel Asas-Martinez (right) for saying she regretted campaigning for Arroyo last year. Cebu Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia (center) called the allegations “baseless and reckless.” (Sun.star file photo) Angered by the attack on the credibility of last year’s elections here, Cebuano leaders yesterday signed a manifesto declaring Rep. Clavel Martinez as persona non grata to Cebuanos. Gov. Gwendolyn Gar-cia, Cebu City Mayor Tomas Osmeña, Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Robert Go, Provincial Board members, mayors, vice mayors and some councilors also urged the House of Representatives and the majority to “take strong and decisive action” against Martinez. But Congresswoman Martinez, in a telephone interview, asked why Cebuanos should feel insulted with what she did, when she was only defending the rights of Cebuanos. [full story]