GMA condoles with families of victims

MANILA, Philippines - Former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo condoled with the families of victims of tropical storm “Sendong” through a written statement from her place of detention at the Veterans Memorial Medical Center (VMMC) yesterday.

The Pasay City regional trial court has barred Arroyo access to mobile phones and laptop computers.

“Merry Christmas to all,” Arroyo said in Filipino.

“I also join those who have been victims of the tragedy in Mindanao, including Iligan City, where I’ve lived many years when I was a child. I join the nation in condoling with those who have lost their loved ones and homes.”

Arroyo also called for prayers and help for the families of the victims.

“News reached me of the extensive damage of this calamity,” she said.

“I enjoin all to offer prayers. I call on my countrymen to extend whatever help they can, and I call on all my fellow officials to set aside differences and instead join hands for the relief effort.”  

Filipinos must not lose faith in God and continue praying so that they will be guided through difficult times, Arroyo said.

Earlier, leaders of the House of Representatives said Arroyo should be allowed access to communication equipment and computer to allow her to serve her constituents.

Arroyo’s motion to be allowed to use a television, radio, laptop and cell phone, and her request for house arrest/Christmas furlough are still under review at the Pasay City regional trial court.

Lawyer Joel Pelicano, RTC branch 112 clerk of court, told The STAR the court’s Nov. 29 order banning the use of cell phones and other electronic devices remains until a new order is issued.

“All the omnibus motion (of Arroyo) are still under study” he said.

However, defense lawyer Jose Flaminiano told The STAR that Judge Jesus Mupas has already verbally approved a television set and radio inside the presidential suite at the VMMC after the prosecution did not oppose their motion.