BY DENNIS GADIL

SEN. Manuel Roxas II, Liberal Party (LP) president, yesterday denied reports that the party sacked Sen. Francis Pangilinan as chairman.

"He resigned as chairman in order for us to have a free hand in reorganizing the party," Roxas said.

He dismissed reports that Pangilinan was let go by the LP for questioning a plan to align with the opposition.

"I think maybe it’s just intriguers who are making a mountain out of a molehill," Roxas said.

Pangilinan was replaced by former Senate President Franklin Drilon as party chair.

Roxas gave the assurance that Pangilinan would be given a key position after the LP completes its reorganization.

"Yes, we are talking about it depending on his inclinations, his interests, how much time he wants to put in the party," he said.

After his installation as LP president, Roxas was given a free hand to revamp the party.

Roxas said he expects Pangilinan to carry on with the principles and ideals of the LP.

"We value Senator Pangilinan. We respect him. He is an important part of the party and he is part of the leadership team."

Pangilinan is a member of the influential Wednesday Club, along with Senate President Manuel Villar, the president of Nacionalista Party who is also touted as a presidential candidate in 2010.

Roxas said Pangilinan possibly is uncomfortable with the LP’s emerging opposition stance.

"Who knows what would happen in two years time. In any event, it will be a party decision. What is most important is that we in the LP are pushing and promoting our platform of government," he said.

The LP celebrated its 62nd anniversary not in a posh hotel – the usual venue for events of political parties – but with the communities of Barangay Commonwealth in Quezon City

The day-long celebration was highlighted by a "pulong bayan" where Roxas and the LP leaders heard the problems and concerns of the community. The party mounted a medical and dental mission, livelihood training and a jobs fair.