Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero on Thursday denied speculations that he is abandoning the presidential race to support Liberal Party presidential standard bearer Sen. Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III.

Escudero and Aquino allegedly met Tuesday midnight at the latter’s residence in New Manila to discuss plans for the May 2010 elections.

Both denied there were such talks but confirmed that a meeting took place between them.

“Just two friends talking and seeing how each one is doing,” Escudero said in a text message to reporters.

“Nothing asked for or given by both sides in relation to 2010 other than the assurance that whatever happens we will remain close friends,” said Escudero.

Aquino said met Escudero, whom he described as a close friend of 10 years, to “touch base.”

“Magkakaibigan kaming matagal na hindi nagkaroon ng oras magkausap. Nag-update lang kami sa isa’t isa,” Aquino said in a text message.

Escudero had earlier bolted the Nacionalist People’s Coalition (NPC) and kept the public speculating as to his next step.

Escudero said he is unaware that a privately commissioned survey was supposedly the reason why Aquino wanted to convince him to support his candidacy.