The Philippine Justice chief has proven again that he is the ultimate defender of the beleaguered Arroyo administration. On Tuesday, Justice Secretary Raul Gonzalez vowed to sell chickens to raise the $210 reward he promised to barangay (village) chieftains who can deliver a 12-0 sweep for the pro-administration senatorial bets.

Gonzales, who owns a livestock farm in Iloilo province said, "It's easy. This is just one [chicken] harvest. I can have the funds I need to support the [administration] candidates."

The justice chief made the offer to help the administration bets win the May 14 mid-term polls. All pre-poll surveys indicate that opposition bets are headed to sweep the senatorial elections with only four administration bets making it in the "Magic 12."

Surprisingly, Gonzalez insist his monetary reward is not illegal and stressed Cabinet officials are allowed to campaign. He says the money cannot be considered a campaign contribution.

"I am not using government funds. What I will give is my personal money. I have the right to choose how I spend my money," Gonzalez said.

Almost immediately, opposition election lawyer Sixto Brillantes warned that Gonzalez might be opening himself up to charges of vote buying.

However, election officials on Tuesday, asked by reporters about Gonzalez' offer, refused to comment on the issue.

Gonzalez also said the administration senatorial slate had asked his help in organizing a campaign rally in Iloilo City on May 10.