Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Jose Atienza Jr. on Tuesday said he has maintained his friendship with former President Joseph Estrada, despite their political differences and that their political ideals will not go between their friendships.

It can be recalled that both were political allies until Estrada was deposed in 2001.

Atienza assured his loyalty to the Arroyo administration, dismissing reports of his alleged leaning political stance for an administration critic.

“I have always been a friend of (Joseph) Estrada. The friendship will always be there,” he said stressing that their political beliefs will not mark their friendship.

But he clarified that as a member of the Arroyo Cabinet, his support is still with the present administration.

Malacañang said that it is not offended by friendship maintained by some Cabinet members with the personalities in the opposition camp and even encourages such "political civility."

But when the campaign period starts, the Cabinet members especially those with political plans next year are expected to rally behind the administration party, according to a senior Palace official.

“We expect Cabinet members running for public office next year to reconcile their plans with those of the administration coalition, particularly in working for the victory of its national candidates,” Presidential political adviser Gabriel Claudio said.

Claudio, secretary general of Lakas-Kampi-CMD party, was reacting to a query if the Palace would stop Cabinet members from joining the ranks of the political opposition in the 2010 national and local elections. Environment Secretary Lito Atienza earlier disclosed his decision to keep his close ties with Estrada while he is working in the Arroyo government. Atienza is reportedly eyeing the mayoralty
post in Manila next year.

Meanwhile, he stressed that he will remain a Liberal in the coming 2010 elections.

“I am a Liberal and will still remain a Liberal. I maintain my stance that the processes of the court should be followed here,” Atienza said, who heads a faction of the LP. (with report from Genalyn Kabiling)