RP defense secretary quits

RP defense secretary quits

MANILA (DPA): The Philippines' defense secretary said yesterday he had submitted his resignation to President Fidel Ramos amid mounting calls for him to vacate his post in preparation for his plans to run for president in the 1998 election.

Renato de Villa, also the head of the National Disaster Coordinating Council, said his critics should understand that his resignation was now in the hands of the president who would have to approve his action.

De Villa, who many believe could be the ruling political party's standard bearer in next year's presidential election, has been under fire for allegations that he could be using government funds to finance his political ambitions.

Opposition politicians have also alleged de Villa was behind a campaign to malign rivals in the presidential race by linking them to illegal drug activities -- accusations which the defense secretary has repeatedly denied.