MANILA, Philippines - President Benigno "Noynoy" Aquino III has finally formed his communications group, according to ABS-CBN sources.
 
Former Presidential Management Staff chief Herminio "Sonny" Coloma, who served under President Cory Aquino's administration, is set to handle media operations.
 
Former ABS-CBN News Channel (ANC) news anchor Ricky Carandang, meanwhile, will strategize and craft government's messages.

Palace officials, however, refused to confirm the report, saying they will issue a statement on Monday.

"On the communications group, all will be announced on Monday," said Presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda.

In a text message, Coloma suggested that the public wait for the official announcement.

"It's premature to confirm, no appointment has been made. Best to wait for official announcement," he said.

Carandang also refused to answer the calls of ABS-CBN.

Carandang quits ANC

Carandang resigned from ANC on Friday after taking a three-week leave.

"ANC management accepted the resignation of anchor Ricky Carandang, which he submitted Friday, July 9, 2010," the news unit said.

The communications group is said to replace the Office of the Press Secretary.

Since this is a new concept, the question now is, who between the two has Cabinet rank, and who will sit during budget hearings and at the Commission on Appointments.
 
Aside from the heads of the communications group, other members are also expected to be named on Monday.

In a press conference on Wednesday, President Aquino said Carandang is part of the team being considered for his communications group, which will be finalized this week.

Carandang has been reporting politics and business for a decade.

He anchored many shows and coverages for ANC, including "The Rundown" and "The Big Picture."

The former stock broker also served as business manager of Newsbreak magazine from 2001 to 2003. 

In June, the Rotary Club of Manila named Carandang broadcast journalist of the year for his work in ANC. -- with a report from Willard Cheng, ABS-CBN News; ANC