Erap Vows to Return to Malacañang

Deposed President Joseph “Erap” Ejercito Estrada held his party's proclamation rally at Plaza Miranda in Quiapo, Manila and swore to his audience his return to the presidency by “regaining the power that was stolen from the Filipino People”.  His political platform is still to empower the poor, fight corruption in the government and alleviate hunger.

He also told the voters to accept bribe money from other candidates but to put his name in the ballot. Estrada said should he be given a chance to get a clean slate of the presidency, he will finish all the pro-poor programs he started. He also expressed his intention to restore peace and order in order for our country to gain economic growth.

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Comelec Declares Erap Can Run for President

Comelec Second Division today (January 20,2010) allows Joseph "Erap" Estrada to run for president this coming May elections. It dismissed the case of disqualifcation filed by a certain Evelio Pormento. Under the ruling, Erap is not covered by the constitutional ban and may run, as he is not an incumbent president. And that his pardon restored all his civil and political rights.

Erap was present during the promulgation and was happy with the decision saying "It is is a victory of the Filipino people", and that decision might boost his popularity.

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Erap Back in Malacañang

Former President Joseph “Erap” Estrada, in what he calls “destiny” steps again in the confines of the Presidential Palace yesterday, after almost 9 years since his ouster, to attend a National Security Meeting upon an invitation from President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.  Among those present in the meeting were the seven-man team commissioned by PGMA to help the Armed Forces and the Philippine National Police to dismantle private armies and ensure security of the coming automated elections.

Attendees in yesterday’s meeting included Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile,  Vice President Noli de Castro, Senators Aquilino Pimentel and Rodolfo Biazon.  Former President Fidel V. Ramos has been included in the advisory council but according to Cabinet Secretary Silvestre Bello, the invitation for Ramos came too late.

Photo courtesy of Reuters

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