Is Microsoft softening up? (2002)

Check this out - Microsoft softens stand on open source software - seems like Microsoft Philippines is re-grouping. I am just wondering, are they under orders from Redmond to issue these statements or are they just playing it safe until they get official reinforcements from Redmond?

OpenMinds have been gearing up their machinery ever since Microsoft Philippines issued a salvo against Open Source.

Question now is - where to?