Jinggoy says family affected by pork scam

MANILA, Philippines - Sen. Jinggoy Estrada said he and his family have been affected morally by the filing of the plunder charges against him and his two colleagues before the Sandiganbayan.

However, Estrada said he has to remain strong for his family, especially for his youngest daughter, Jillian, who has been most affected by the latest challenge he has to face as a public official.

Estrada said he also draws strength from his family especially his father, former president and Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada, and his mother, former senator Loi Estrada, as well as his wife, Precy, and their children.

Faced with eventual arrest, Estrada said he has started to psych up his children over the eventuality that he will not be able to go home regularly soon especially once he is detained over the non-bailable offense.

Estrada and his lawyers are meeting on Monday to determine their next legal strategy, which may include bringing the case before the Supreme Court.  

Earlier in the day, lawyer Alexis Abastillas, the senator’s spokesman for legal matters, said they are mulling the filing of a petition for the determination of probable cause regarding the plunder charges.

Abastillas said the Sandiganbayan has 10 days for the determination of probable case before it can issue a warrant of arrest. But it might take more than 10 days for the justices to weigh the documentary evidence against the embattled senator. 

Sen. Ramon Revilla Jr, who is also facing plunder charges, is reportedly scheduling a privilege speech on Monday regarding the recent developments.

Senate Minority Leader Juan Ponce Enrile is also among the over 30 personalities indicted before the Sandiganbayan in connection with the pork barrel scam.