HAVANA - Raul Castro is widely expected to be named Cuba's president to replace his brother, Fidel, by parliament on Sunday. Top possibilities to replace him in the No. 2 spot:

_CARLOS LAGE DAVILA, 56: The most likely contender because of his relative youth and broad experience. He is already one of five vice presidents below Raul Castro and is also Cabinet secretary, a sort of de-facto prime minister. He is credited with helping save Cuba's economy by designing modest economic reforms after the Soviet Union collapsed.

_FELIPE PEREZ ROQUE, 42: A strong candidate for one of five regular vice presidencies, at least. Foreign minister for nearly nine years and previously personal secretary to Fidel Castro, Perez Roque is well acquainted with the outgoing leader's thinking. A former leader of Communist Party youth organizations.

_RICARDO ALARCON QUESADA, 70: Considered a long shot because of his age, despite broad experience. President of parliament, he was foreign minister for one year and served twice as ambassador to the United Nations. He has represented Cuba in talks with the U.S., played a central role in the seven-month battle for the repatriation of Elian Gonzalez and is the government's lead advocate for five Cuban agents serving prison terms in the United States.