BY ABS CBN News

A Malacañang source confirmed that President Arroyo is on a diving trip with some political allies Thursday, which explained why she had no official engagements for media coverage.

Aboard the presidential yacht BRP Ang Pangulo, Mrs. Arroyo reportedly visited Apo Reef this morning, one of the country's famous diving spots, off the west coast of Mindoro.

Joining her were House Deputy Speaker Amelita Villarosa and Occidental Mindoro Gov Josephine Sato. Sources said this is an apparent attempt to patch differences between the two political rivals, who are both part of the administration coalition.

From Mindoro, President Arroyo’s party is reportedly set to proceed to Palawan.

A diving enthusiast, Mrs. Arroyo will reportedly dive in Tubbataha Reef before proceeding to Dumaguete City in Negros Oriental on Firday to attend to several meetings, including a visit to a rice distribution center.

Asked to confirm these pieces of information, Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye could only mumble these words: “I don’t have contact with the president right now. I don’t know. I will let you know soon.”

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