Cerge, PR asset of Arroyo administration – Salceda

by MA Loterte

Legazpi City (22 January) — Albay Governor Joey Salceda has extended condolences to the family of Press Secretary Cerge Remonde, who succumbed to a heart attack shortly before noon on Tuesday (January 19) at the Makati Medical Center.

Salceda said Remonde was a public relation asset of the Arroyo Administration, doing it so well even if he at time had sighed in admission of being a failure as lead communicator of the Office of the President.

The governor was in disbelief upon learning of the untimely demise of the Press Secretary.

Salceda recalled he was with Remonde, along with President Arroyo, just last Monday at the Malacañang study room from 2:00 pm up to 5:00 pm discussing a major policy speech, “inviting him afterward to one of the Palace corners facing Pasig river for a smoke.”

“Cerge has hardly shown a hint that he would go so soon,” he narrated.

According to Salceda, Remonde was a hardworking cabinet member and a good friend who he and his multitude of friends would miss.

“He (Remonde) was a close confidant not only to President Arroyo but also to all cabinet members,” he said.

Salceda added that Remonde’s loyalty to the Arroyo Administration is highly remarkable. (PIA V)