Letter To The Editor - Erap Estrada

Estrada became Ramos' vice president in 1992 when his runningmate Eduardo Cojuangco (cousin of Cory Aquino) was defeated by Ramos, even though Estrada himself won the vice president's election. A former actor known for tough guy roles in over 100 films, Estrada cultivated a street fighter image that later played well electorally in his populist pitches to stand up for the "downtrodden" masses.

Estrada unsuccessfully ran for mayor of San Juan in 1968 but was later installed after contesting the election. He served throughout the Marcos regime but was removed by an Aquino-sponsored anti-corruption drive in 1986. However, he successfully contested a Senate seat in 1987 under his own party banner (the Party of the Filipino Masses.)

Although Estrada was successful in his 1998 presidential campaign, largely fought on an anti-elitist platform, corruption allegations quickly surfaced. The refusal of Estrada's congressional allies to investigate the allegations (even refusing to open irrefutable evidence) led to the second Edsa revolution in 2001, which saw Estrada removed from office and placed under house arrest on anti-corruption and was convicted and granted presidential pardon including the restoration of his civil rights.

Although Edsa II was supported by influential political figures, including ex-presidents Aquino and Ramos, the action was heavily criticized by foreign governments (especially the US) who denounced it as de facto coup.

Estrada was replaced by his former vice president, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, who also won the 2004 presidential elections amid accusations of ballot fraud.

Constancio R. Panilag Jr.

2770 Sindulan, Tinaan, Naga, Cebu