Buoyed by a successful trip to America, rebounding popularity at home and support from her party, Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo may consider backtracking on her promise not to run in next year's presidential poll. Asked during her US trip if she might reconsider her decision not to run, Mrs Arroyo gave 'no comment' replies - triggering speculation in political circles and the media on her possible change of mind. She also stonewalled questions on whether US President George W. Bush had asked her to run. Two aides, who accompanied her on the trip to Washington, said the political gains made during her visit would translate into higher popularity ratings, making an election bid viable. Mr Bush's planned visit to the Philippines in November is also expected to provide a further boost. Next year, Filipinos abroad - most of them based in the US - will be allowed to vote for the first time. On Mrs Arroyo's request, Mr Bush agreed to have bank charges lowered for all remittances to the Philippines - which could save Filipinos an estimated US$300 million. Mrs Arroyo's popularity ratings started falling in August last year, in the wake of the resignation of popular education secretary Raul Roco, the seizure by the Abu Sayyaf of more hostages in the south and Malaysia's expulsion of thousands of illegal Filipino workers. In a December survey, respondents were asked whom they would vote for president if elections were held at the time. Mr Roco topped the list, with Mrs Arroyo in fourth place. The president stunned the nation on December 30 when she announced she would not be a candidate in next year's election. Her coalition partners have been hard put finding a replacement to field against likely opposition candidates, including an actor and a former Marcos crony.
