FORMER Planning Secretary Romulo Neri yesterday called on political leaders to abandon "politics of hate" and declare "one year of social peace" so that the country could focus on solving its problems.

"I urge our political leaders to go for the politics of hope and progress where we practice human decency and respect for the dignity of our fellowmen," said Neri, acting Higher Education chairman.

Deputy Palace spokesperson Lorelei Fajardo said the Palace supports Neri's call.

Neri is at the center of the $329 million national broadband deal with China's ZTE Corp. which was cancelled by President Arroyo last year amid allegations of overprice and payoffs.

Neri has refused to testify about his conversation with the President after he informed her of the P200 million bribe offer of former Elections chair Benjamin Abalos.

He said he would go to the Senate only after the Supreme Court decides on his petition to nullify the Senate's arrest order against him and his invocation of executive privilege.

Makati Mayor Jejomar Binay, United Opposition president, said Neri should watch his back.

"In an administration that thrives on lies and deception, Neri has committed a mortal sin by being evasive," Binay said.

"Perhaps there is still an ounce of decency trying to come out, but from now on, Mr. Neri should be wary of the people surrounding him, since they could be the ones setting him up for a major demolition job," Binay added.

Binay said there is no dearth of proof that Mrs. Arroyo is vindictive to those who do not toe the line, citing the ouster of Jose de Venecia Jr. as Speaker and the threats and pressure exerted on his son, Joey, and Rodolfo Noel Lozada who has corroborated anomalies in the ZTE deal. - Regina Bengco and Ashzel Hachero