The transition teams of outgoing President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo and President-elect Benigno Simeon “Noynoy” Aquino III met on Thursday to discuss preparations for the June 30 inaugural.

This developed as Aquino named Col. Ramon Dizon as chief of his Presidential Security Group (PSG).

He is currently commander of the Joint Special Operations Group of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

Presidential Management Staff (PMS) Director General Elena Bautista-Horn said the first leg of the series of meetings between the tw sides officially started Thursday, focusing on the preparations for the smooth and orderly turnover of power.

“It would be a series of meetings. We will be in touch every day,” she told reporters during a briefing at the Arlegui guest house, describing the meeting as “cordial, friendly, and open.”

“I think it was a good start for both sides,” she stressed.

Among those who attended the 2 p.m. meeting at the Premier Guest House of the Office of the Executive Secretary were Maria Montelibano, who headed Radio Television Malacañang during late President Corazon Aquino’s term; Atty. Michael Musngi and Atty. Pio Batino. From the side of the outgoing administration were Bautista, National Historical Institute (NHI) official Ambeth Ocampo, Ambassador Erlinda Basilio, Budget Undersecretary Mario Relampagos, and Deputy Secretary Pete Venturanza of the Office of the President.

Executive Secretary Leandro Mendoza and his counterpart, Jojo Ochoa, were unable to attend Thursday’s meeting because of their scheduled engagements.

Bautista said the two teams are also expected to meet anew this Friday.

She said President Arroyo’s transition team discussed its recommendations to Aquino’s camp, including the security aspect of the inaugural.