News In Brief

Philippines to restore post of vice-presidency

The ruling party agreed Monday to revive the vice-presidency, and powerful First Lady Imelda Marcos resigned from the 15-member executive committee previously designated to succeed President Ferdinand Marcos.

Political Affairs Minister Leonardo Perez told reporters the decision to restore the position of the vice-president in 1987 was reached during a caucus of ruling party members in the National Assembly. Mr. Perez said that as an interim arrangement the speaker of the National Assembly would become president should Mr. Marcos be unable to carry out his duties before his term expires in 1987.

Perez said the party also decided to abolish the executive committee. Before that decision was taken, Mrs. Marcos announced her resignation from the committee. She is expected to continue as Manila governor and human-settlements minister.