Senator Richard Gordon says he has not burned his bridges with Malaca?ang despite being critical of the administration.

Gordon, who is eyeing the presidency in the 2010 elections, said yesterday he was open to the idea of being endorsed by President Arroyo, under whom he served as Tourism secretary from 2001 to 2004.

?Well, politics is addition. If they believe in my capability, I will welcome it. Why not if I will not owe them a political debt if I am endorsed?? he told newsmen.

Although Gordon was elected to the Senate in 2004 under the administration banner, he does not relish being identified with the administration and prefers to be known as an independent.

When asked whether or not he will actively seek the President?s endorsement, he replied: ?I don?t think so. I don?t think it will be a kiss of death. But there are people who say that.?

He said he would like to be supported by former President Fidel Ramos who is a less controversial figure than Mrs. Arroyo.

The Palace was reportedly dismayed when Gordon, in his capacity as chairman of the Senate Blue Ribbon committee, declared that President Arroyo should be held responsible for the P728-million fertilizer fund scam under the doctrine of ?qualified political agency.?

But the committee in its final investigation report found no evidence directly linking the President to the fertilizer fund mess. Fel V. Maragay