Palace fotog files libel suit

The chief close-in photographer of President Arroyo filed yesterday a libel complaint against 25 of his fellow workers at Malacañang’s photo section who earlier had denounced him for alleged irregularities.

Jerry Carual lodged the complaint with the Manila prosecutor’s office, claiming that the accusations against him were "malicious."

Press Secretary Noel Cabrera, acting on a two-page complaint against Carual, has relieved him as chief of the Palace photo section.

But since Carual works at the Office of the President as Mrs. Arroyo’s close-in photographer, with a rank of technical assistant, he remains in his post at Malacañang.

Cabrera designated Press Undersecretary Carmen Suva to head a panel that will investigate the 10-point accusations against Carual.

Carual’s fellow workers alleged that he has abused his position for "personal interests." — Marichu Villanueva