Senator Paul Laxalt of Nevada, chairman of the Republican National Committee and a close friend of President Reagan's, was being uncharacteristically taciturn. Laxalt had been dispatched by Reagan to Manila for four days of personal chats with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos. What did they talk about? "I'm sorry, I can't comment," he told reporters as he left Manila. Was he satisfied with the talks? "Quite." Did he accomplish his mission? "I hope so."
Laxalt's reluctance to elaborate reflected the delicate nature of that mission. The Administration is known to be deeply concerned about the future of the Marcos regime, the corruption-ridden...
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