Personally I think Merlino still boss is bulls*t.

People in the trenches facing trials, feds and stools are happy to send Joey an envelope whilst he's tanning it up in Florida?

Defering to his call?

NY recognizes him (after all the street war shit he pulled in the 90's?). He's wearing the title?

Maybe, but I dont see it.

More Likely he's the Mancuso of Philly IMO. Lightning rod to keep Joe-Fed occupied. Hollow title if any.

But who the F**k knows...