MANILA, Philippines?President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on Monday vowed to stay away from the election process and instead focus on other government programs.

The statement was made amid speculations that a failure of elections is possible as part of the ploy to retain Arroyo as president.

In her speech during the 113th Philippine Army Founding Anniversary held at Fort Bonifacio Monday, Arroyo said that she will be "staying out" of the electoral process.

"I will be staying out of the process," Arroyo said.

She added that she will instead focus on stabilizing the economy and other government programs on infrastructure, education, health care, employment, and job creation.