Erap’s brother dies of cancer

An elder brother of ousted President Joseph Estrada died of cancer at the San Juan Medical Center in San Juan yesterday.

This is the second straight year that a loved one of Estrada died during the Christmas season.

The 72-year-old Antonio Ejercito is the fifth in a brood of 10.

Sen. Jinggoy Estrada said the ousted president, who is detained at their vast estate in Tanay, Rizal was saddened by the death of his brother.

The younger Estrada said his father has instructed his lawyers to prepare the necessary legal moves to allow him to attend the wake of his brother, whose remains lie in state at the Santuario de San Jose in San Juan.

"He is the handsomest of all 10... He is married to his books," said Estrada of his uncle.

Antonio, a law graduate of the University of Manila, is the fourth sibling of Estrada to die, following George, Connie and Emilio.

Estrada’s mother, Mary Marcelo-Ejercito, is still alive at 100 years old.

Last year, Estrada was caught in video in tears and deep sorrow during the wake of his best friend, Fernando Poe Jr. at the Sto. Domingo Church In Quezon City.

Poe’s second death anniversary will be marked on Dec. 14 by his family and friends with a Mass at the same church.

The 68-year-old Estrada is also seeking the Sandiganbayan’s permission for Christmas furlough and to be placed under house arrest. — Christina Mendez