LOS ANGELES, CA -- Pensioners of the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS), the agency that provides retirement benefits to Philippine government employees, will now have an easier way to guarantee the uninterrupted receipt of their monthly GSIS pension benefits using only their telephone or cellular phone.
Through a new system called GSIS Voice Activated Processing System or G-V@PS, GSIS pensioners under the jurisdiction of the Los Angeles Consular Office just need to go to the Consular Office for a one-time enrollment to this new system. Once enrolled, they can use their landline or cellular phone to call the G-V@PS hotline at 011-632-8590303 and avail of a menu of services including renewal of active status.
The status renewal is an annual GSIS requirement that ensures pensioners of the continuous receipt of their pension.
Prior to the introduction of the G-V@PS, pensioners based here had to go to the Consular Office and use the GSIS Wireless Automated Processing System or G-W@PS kiosk to renew their active status. The kiosk identifies the pensioner’s biometrics through his fingerprints.
The G-V@PS complements the G-W@PS as it records and captures the pensioner’s voice biometrics. Thus, instead of going to the Consular Office for the status renewal, pensioners only need to use their telephone or cellular phone to comply with the said requirement.
Enrolling to the G-V@PS is optional, although GSIS President and General Manager Winston F. Garcia offered a “friendly caveat.”
“While G-V@PS is optional, the benefits it carries should convince our pensioners to enroll,” he said.
On their birth month, pensioners have the option to enroll to the G-V@PS at the Philippine Consular Office wherein they will be assisted by a Consulate Authorized Representative (CAR). Pensioners should bring their eCard Plus during the enrollment.
For those without eCard Plus, pensioners need to enroll first to the eCard thru the G-W@PS installed at the Consular Office. They must call the Consular Office at least one week prior to their preferred schedule of enrollment. Pensioners need to enter their cellular phone number or even the cell number of their relatives or friends, their e-mail address and home address when enrolling to the G-W@PS. A CAR is also available to assist them in this enrollment process. After enrollment, the eCard Plus will be mailed to the pensioner in the address he/she has provided.
Upon receipt of the eCard, pensioners need to set an appointment to activate the eCard Plus in the Consular Office where G-W@PS kiosk are located.
For inquiries on the G-V@PS, pensioners can send their email to pension@gsis.gov.ph or call the GSIS representative at (213) 637-3019.
Friday, October 26, 2007
Wal-Mart Donates $1,000,000 in Support of American Red Cross California Wildfire Relief
WASHINGTON--(U.S. ASIAN WIRE)-- October 26, 2007-- Responding to the devastating aftermath of the wildfires that have blazed across California, Wal-Mart has donated $1,000,000 to American Red Cross disaster relief efforts. In addition, Wal-Mart is also providing its customers with the opportunity to help by initiating a customer donation program in Wal- Mart stores across California.
The Red Cross has nearly 3,000 workers on site in Southern California, including volunteers from all 50 states, and is offering a wide range of support focusing on continued sheltering for those who need it. As of midnight last night, the Red Cross had 24 shelters opened, providing people with a safe place to stay. Additional Red Cross services include providing meals, distribution of clean up supplies and mental health support to provide a shoulder for those in need to lean on.
In addition to the generous $1,000,000 donation, local Wal-Mart stores and Sam's Clubs in California are setting up collection sites so that their customers can conveniently make cash donations to help support ongoing relief efforts.
"We are grateful for the generous support of Wal-Mart and their customers, providing help and hope to our neighbors in California during their time of need," said Mark W. Everson, President and CEO of the American Red Cross. "Wal- Mart's generosity, leadership and timely support of our humanitarian mission is greatly appreciated."
Wal-Mart has a history as a corporate leader in the area of disaster relief. In 2005, Wal-Mart donated more than $32 million in cash to aid Hurricane Katrina emergency relief efforts. This included $2 million in contributions to the Red Cross. Last year, Wal-Mart provided more than $2 million in disaster relief funds to assist in relief efforts across the nation, including floods and tornadoes disaster response.
"Wal-Mart has a long history of increasing our community support during times of disaster," said Margaret McKenna, president of the Wal-Mart Foundation. "The wildfires raging across Southern California have impacted customers, communities and our own associates. It was an easy decision to move forward with aiding relief efforts."
The Red Cross has nearly 3,000 workers on site in Southern California, including volunteers from all 50 states, and is offering a wide range of support focusing on continued sheltering for those who need it. As of midnight last night, the Red Cross had 24 shelters opened, providing people with a safe place to stay. Additional Red Cross services include providing meals, distribution of clean up supplies and mental health support to provide a shoulder for those in need to lean on.
In addition to the generous $1,000,000 donation, local Wal-Mart stores and Sam's Clubs in California are setting up collection sites so that their customers can conveniently make cash donations to help support ongoing relief efforts.
"We are grateful for the generous support of Wal-Mart and their customers, providing help and hope to our neighbors in California during their time of need," said Mark W. Everson, President and CEO of the American Red Cross. "Wal- Mart's generosity, leadership and timely support of our humanitarian mission is greatly appreciated."
Wal-Mart has a history as a corporate leader in the area of disaster relief. In 2005, Wal-Mart donated more than $32 million in cash to aid Hurricane Katrina emergency relief efforts. This included $2 million in contributions to the Red Cross. Last year, Wal-Mart provided more than $2 million in disaster relief funds to assist in relief efforts across the nation, including floods and tornadoes disaster response.
"Wal-Mart has a long history of increasing our community support during times of disaster," said Margaret McKenna, president of the Wal-Mart Foundation. "The wildfires raging across Southern California have impacted customers, communities and our own associates. It was an easy decision to move forward with aiding relief efforts."
Pres. Bush Recognizes Mabuhay Alliance
By Johnny M. Pecayo
www.manila-ustimes.com
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- President George W. Bush sent a letter to Faith Bautista, Executive Director of San Diego-based non-profit organization, Mabuhay Alliance, recognizing its commitment to promoting and enhancing minority businesses.
FAITH BAUTISTA
Executive Director,
Mabuhay Alliance
"The 4th Annual Economic Conference is a chance for participants to celebrate accomplishments and to further business development through networking and continuing education," the President wrote.
He added: "My administration remains committed to strengthening minority businesses and helping out entrepreneurs and innovators succeed.
"I appreciate the Mabuhay Alliance (MA) for its commitment to promoting and enhancing minority businesses. Your efforts advance prosperity for all our citizens and help make our Nation stronger.
"Laura and I send our best wishes on this special occasion," the President concluded his letter.
California Governor Cites MA
Meanwhile, California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger sent his own message citing that: "This conference is a wonderful opportunity for small-business owners, families and individuals to gain insights on how to effectively manage business finances.
"Your organization's work with Pacific American Islanders and Filipino Americans expand their knowledge on home-buying and financial planning, improving their abilities to successfully support their children and families.
"I thank Mabuhay Alliance for its tremendous contributions to building a brighter future for the people of the State of Calaifornia. Your continued work helps keep California's economy strong and productive," concluded Gov. Scharzenegger in his message.
Venue, Speakers
The 4th Annual Economic Conference will be held on Saturday, October 20, at the San Diego Marriott Mission Valley, with a line up of powerful speakers comprising of: Janet Lamkin, President, Bank of America; Lisa Barrett, President, Citibank, California; Donna Burke, Vice President, AT&T; and Elva G. Lima, Vice President, Verizon, as announced by Faith Bautista, through her coordinator, Tony Marquez, who is inviting everyone who has been a part of Mabuhay Alliance's journey in the areas of MTA classes and Financial Literacy workshops throughout 2007.
The announcement added that there is no fee to invited guests and individuals in both the conference and gala dinner.
www.manila-ustimes.com
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- President George W. Bush sent a letter to Faith Bautista, Executive Director of San Diego-based non-profit organization, Mabuhay Alliance, recognizing its commitment to promoting and enhancing minority businesses.
FAITH BAUTISTA
Executive Director,
Mabuhay Alliance
"The 4th Annual Economic Conference is a chance for participants to celebrate accomplishments and to further business development through networking and continuing education," the President wrote.
He added: "My administration remains committed to strengthening minority businesses and helping out entrepreneurs and innovators succeed.
"I appreciate the Mabuhay Alliance (MA) for its commitment to promoting and enhancing minority businesses. Your efforts advance prosperity for all our citizens and help make our Nation stronger.
"Laura and I send our best wishes on this special occasion," the President concluded his letter.
California Governor Cites MA
Meanwhile, California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger sent his own message citing that: "This conference is a wonderful opportunity for small-business owners, families and individuals to gain insights on how to effectively manage business finances.
"Your organization's work with Pacific American Islanders and Filipino Americans expand their knowledge on home-buying and financial planning, improving their abilities to successfully support their children and families.
"I thank Mabuhay Alliance for its tremendous contributions to building a brighter future for the people of the State of Calaifornia. Your continued work helps keep California's economy strong and productive," concluded Gov. Scharzenegger in his message.
Venue, Speakers
The 4th Annual Economic Conference will be held on Saturday, October 20, at the San Diego Marriott Mission Valley, with a line up of powerful speakers comprising of: Janet Lamkin, President, Bank of America; Lisa Barrett, President, Citibank, California; Donna Burke, Vice President, AT&T; and Elva G. Lima, Vice President, Verizon, as announced by Faith Bautista, through her coordinator, Tony Marquez, who is inviting everyone who has been a part of Mabuhay Alliance's journey in the areas of MTA classes and Financial Literacy workshops throughout 2007.
The announcement added that there is no fee to invited guests and individuals in both the conference and gala dinner.
GAMC Achieves Goal of $10 M for Capital Campaign
GLENDALE, CA, -- The Healthcare Foundation at Glendale Adventist Medical Center is pleased to announce that it has achieved its goal of raising $10 million for the hospital's capital campaign. With current cash and pledges made towards the campaign, the Healthcare Foundation completed the fundraising campaign a few months early. The campaign started in April 2004 and was to end December 2007. The money raised for the campaign is for the hospital's new West Tower. Coincidently, the final pledge came in on opening day of the West Tower.
The West Tower is a 190,000-square foot, seven-story building featuring60 new patient beds, larger patient rooms, a family centered IntensiveCare Unit, a new emergency department and state-of the-art technology.
The Healthcare Foundation supports the work and mission of GlendaleAdventist Medical Center through philanthropy. "Many dedicated peoplehave been working behind the scenes to make this campaign successful,"said David Burghart, President of the Healthcare Foundation. "Ourboard members contributed to its success."
*The Healthcare Foundation could not have completed such a hugeCampaign without the help of our campaign leader, John Merrell," saidBurghart. "We appreciate John's leadership and commitment, not onlywith his time and insight, but also with this incredible demonstrationof financial support."
"I would like to thank all those who recognized the importance of ourcause to our community and supported it with their donations," saidJohn Merrell.
"I would especially like to thank our team of volunteers, board members,physicians, hospital administration, employees and the Foundation staffwho worked so hard to reach this goal. These are special individualswho are dedicated to the hospital and its mission," said JohnMerrell, Capital Campaign Leader.
"I offer my sincere thanks to everyone who has supported thiscampaign. It's amazing how our employees rallied to meet and exceedtheir goal of $500,000. Our physicians gave more than $600,000. LocalFoundations and organizations gave more than $2 million. Our boards gave more than 2 million dollars combined. We appreciate the personal and financial contributions that all have provided to our West Tower building project over the years," said Burghart.
A two-story water feature in the lobby of the West Tower recognizesgenerous donors. Physicians and employee donors are recognized withtheir names listed on a special wall in the new tower.
It's never too late to donate. If you are still interested in supporting the West Tower or any other areas of the hospital, please call the Healthcare Foundation at Glendale Adventist Medical Center (818) 409-8055.
Original Wowowee Mainstay goes Live in Concert
JANELLE JAMER
Original Wowowee Mainstay
MANILA -- Janelle Jamer, the original co-host of Willie Revillame in the famous Wowowee noontime show on ABS-CBN Channel 2, who resigned recently from the said show, has officially informed the MANILA-U.S. TIMES of her forthcoming concert, to be held next Saturday, October 27, at the BNP Cultural Arts Center in Ontario, California.
The Ontario concert will be followed with another concert on November 2 in Chicago's Gateway Theatre, with the last leg of the concert to be held on Saturday, November 3, at the Chabot College Performing Arts Theatre in San Francisco, California.
With Janelle in this concert are Vhong Navarro and Manny Poo Kiaw.
"Performing before a huge crowd has been my childhood dream, and I am glad that the fulfillment of that dream would soon come to fruition," Janelle reveals to MANILA-U.S. TIMES when interviewed.
"Through your newspaper publication, I would like to invite everyone to come and watch the show on October 27 in Ontario, California," writes Janelle in her email posting.
"It will be a good opportunity to get together and have a photo op with my fans in this part of the United States," she added. -- JP
Original Wowowee Mainstay
MANILA -- Janelle Jamer, the original co-host of Willie Revillame in the famous Wowowee noontime show on ABS-CBN Channel 2, who resigned recently from the said show, has officially informed the MANILA-U.S. TIMES of her forthcoming concert, to be held next Saturday, October 27, at the BNP Cultural Arts Center in Ontario, California.
The Ontario concert will be followed with another concert on November 2 in Chicago's Gateway Theatre, with the last leg of the concert to be held on Saturday, November 3, at the Chabot College Performing Arts Theatre in San Francisco, California.
With Janelle in this concert are Vhong Navarro and Manny Poo Kiaw.
"Performing before a huge crowd has been my childhood dream, and I am glad that the fulfillment of that dream would soon come to fruition," Janelle reveals to MANILA-U.S. TIMES when interviewed.
"Through your newspaper publication, I would like to invite everyone to come and watch the show on October 27 in Ontario, California," writes Janelle in her email posting.
"It will be a good opportunity to get together and have a photo op with my fans in this part of the United States," she added. -- JP
Philippine President Pardons Estrada
Thursday, Oct. 25, 2007 By AP/JIM GOMEZ 
FORMER PRESIDENT Joseph Estrada waves to the crowd upon hearing of
news report about President Arroyo granting him executive clemency yesterday.
news report about President Arroyo granting him executive clemency yesterday.
MANILA, Philippines -- President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo pardoned her ousted predecessor Thursday, paving the way for Joseph Estrada's release a month after he was sentenced to life in prison for corruption.
Acting Executive Secretary Ignacio Bunye said the pardon would restore Estrada's civil and political rights and would take effect upon his acceptance.
There was no immediate reaction from the 70-year-old Estrada, who has been allowed by the anti-graft Sandiganbayan court to be detained in his sprawling villa near Manila while appealing his Sept. 12 conviction for plunder.
Estrada's lawyers withdrew his appeal Monday, removing a key obstacle to the grant of pardon.
Arroyo cited her government's policy of releasing convicts who have reached 70, Estrada's 6 1/2 years' detention and his public pledge not to seek any public office in deciding to pardon her political nemesis.
A court order forfeiting a mansion and more than $15.5 million in bank accounts believed to be owned by Estrada would remain in place, according to Arroyo's decision, which was read by Bunye in a nationally televised announcement.
"Arroyo is fully convinced that this pardon is in order," Bunye told reporters.
A Sandiganbayan court spokesman, Renato Bocar, said it would order Estrada's release after receiving a copy of Arroyo's grant of pardon.
Estrada was ousted by a nonviolent "people power" revolt that was co-led by Arroyo, then his vice president, in 2001 over allegations of massive corruption and misrule. He was arrested and detained a few months later, angering his legions of followers.
Estrada was convicted last September after a landmark six-year trial on charges that he took bribes and kickbacks while in office. He was sentenced to life in prison.
Estrada has denied the charges and accused Arroyo of masterminding his removal in a conspiracy with leaders of the Roman Catholic church and senior military officers.
A former action film star who once pulled off the biggest election victory in Philippine history, Estrada remains popular among impoverished Filipinos who adored his B-movies, where he often portrayed roles as a champion of the poor.
He served as an opposition icon, often criticizing Arroyo from behind bars.
Estrada told The Associated Press earlier this week that he would not seek public office even if that right were restored by presidential pardon. He said, however, he would continue to criticize Arroyo. -- TIME Magazine
Acting Executive Secretary Ignacio Bunye said the pardon would restore Estrada's civil and political rights and would take effect upon his acceptance.
There was no immediate reaction from the 70-year-old Estrada, who has been allowed by the anti-graft Sandiganbayan court to be detained in his sprawling villa near Manila while appealing his Sept. 12 conviction for plunder.
Estrada's lawyers withdrew his appeal Monday, removing a key obstacle to the grant of pardon.
Arroyo cited her government's policy of releasing convicts who have reached 70, Estrada's 6 1/2 years' detention and his public pledge not to seek any public office in deciding to pardon her political nemesis.
A court order forfeiting a mansion and more than $15.5 million in bank accounts believed to be owned by Estrada would remain in place, according to Arroyo's decision, which was read by Bunye in a nationally televised announcement.
"Arroyo is fully convinced that this pardon is in order," Bunye told reporters.
A Sandiganbayan court spokesman, Renato Bocar, said it would order Estrada's release after receiving a copy of Arroyo's grant of pardon.
Estrada was ousted by a nonviolent "people power" revolt that was co-led by Arroyo, then his vice president, in 2001 over allegations of massive corruption and misrule. He was arrested and detained a few months later, angering his legions of followers.
Estrada was convicted last September after a landmark six-year trial on charges that he took bribes and kickbacks while in office. He was sentenced to life in prison.
Estrada has denied the charges and accused Arroyo of masterminding his removal in a conspiracy with leaders of the Roman Catholic church and senior military officers.
A former action film star who once pulled off the biggest election victory in Philippine history, Estrada remains popular among impoverished Filipinos who adored his B-movies, where he often portrayed roles as a champion of the poor.
He served as an opposition icon, often criticizing Arroyo from behind bars.
Estrada told The Associated Press earlier this week that he would not seek public office even if that right were restored by presidential pardon. He said, however, he would continue to criticize Arroyo. -- TIME Magazine
******
Erap now free, all rights restored
By Sherwin C. Olaes
10/26/2007
By Sherwin C. Olaes
10/26/2007
MANILA -- Deposed President Joseph Estrada is now a free man, following President Arroyo’s grant of his full pardon yesterday, restoring his full civil and political rights.
Estrada is expected to leave his detention today, no longer accompanied by his police guards.
Following the grant of executive clemency, Mrs. Arroyo ordered Department of Interior and Local Government Secretary Ronaldo Puno to personally relay the order to Estrada at 9 a.m. today which will formalize his release from detention.
The order of Mrs. Arroyo which was read to the media by Acting Executive Secretary and concurrent Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye, used as basis the age of Estrada, who is now 70 years old and his six-and-a-half years in detention.
The order said all the political and civil rights of Estrada are now restored but the forfeitures imposed by the Sandiganbayan on his questioned properties “remain in full force and in full,” except for the bank account(s) he owned before his tenure as president.
Bunye read the statement of Mrs. Arroyo on the Estrada pardon.
“Whereas, this administration has a policy of releasing inmates who have reached the age of 70. Whereas, Joseph Ejercito Estrada has been under detention for six-and-a-half years; Whereas, Joseph Ejercito Estrada has publicly committed to no longer seek any elective position or office; IN VIEW HEREOF, and pursuant to the authority conferred upon me by the Constitution, I hereby grant executive clemency to Joseph Ejercito Estrada, convicted by the Sandiganbayan of plunder and imposed a penalty of reclusion perpetua. He is hereby restored to his civil and political rights,” part of Mrs. Arroyo’s order said.
“Upon acceptance of this pardon by Joseph Ejercito Estrada, this pardon shall take effect,” the order added.
Bunye said they did not wait for the written recommendation of the Department of Justice (DoJ) because its Acting Secretary Agnes Devanadera already verbally participated in the crafting of the order.
Bunye said the President merely exercised her presidential prerogative mandated by the Constitution.
A reliable Palace insider told the Tribune yesterday that Mrs. Arroyo added the “unenforceable” conditions, such as his not running for the presidency again as well as the bank accounts while he was president, were a “face-saving” act for Mrs. Arroyo, and meant also to “appease” some of her allies and anti-Estrada forces, who have been vocal against an Estrada pardon.
Contacted by the Tribune, sources from the Estrada camp said there was never any commitment made by Estrada of his not seeking the presidency, pointing out that when one’s political rights are restored, one can again vote and be voted upon.
They added that even that forfeiture proviso was questionable, since the Sandiganbayan decision was clear that only the so-called Boracay Mansion, along with the Erap Muslim Youth Foundation funds in the bank account were subject to forfeiture.
Estrada has consistently stated that neither properties are his and that the court could have them forfeited.
“Even the legitimacy of (Mrs. Arroyo) has not been established through that pardon,” they pointed out, saying that as she is sitting in Malacañang exercising the power and authority of a president, the grant of executive clemency must come from her. But this does not mean Erap’s recognition of her legitimacy. A de facto President can also grant such pardons.”
Senate President Manuel Villar, in a statement, welcomed the executive clemency extended to the Estrada by the Arroyo government. Despite the Sandiganbayan conviction, saying that “President Estrada remains in the heart of the masses.”
“The executive clemency extended to former President Joseph Estrada is a great step towards reconciliation, which is vital to our country’s unhindered passage to progress. This act emphasizes the value of humane consideration and compassionate justice,” the statement read.
Estrada’s son, Senate President Pro-Tempore, also welcomed the news of his father’s release, but also stressed that like his mother, former First Lady and Sen. Loi Estrada, he remains in the opposition.
Earlier, national leaders threw their support behind the move to grant executive pardon to the former leader in an effort to unite the country and help the government in realizing its dream for economic recovery.
In a letter dated Sept.16 - four days after the Sandiganbayan convicted Estrada of plunder – they pointed out to Mrs. Arroyo how the grant of absolute pardon to Estrada will heal the deep divisions in the country and help the government focus its efforts on pressing national problems.
The letter to Mrs. Arroyo was signed by Ricardo Cardinal Vidal, Villar and Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr.
The letter states in part: “For too long, since Edsa II which resulted in the relinquishment of the Presidency by former President Estrada, his indictment before the Sandiganbayan, detention without bail, have diverted the attention and efforts of our country from critical problems of poverty, development, terrorism, peace and order, and social tensions.
“The Sandiganbayan decision convicting former President Estrada, and sentencing him to “reclusion perpetua,” could lead to the deepening division among our people, and most disturbing perhaps, between those in the upper echelons of society and those beneath, among the masses of our people.
In their letter, Vidal, Villar and De Venecia noted that despite the humiliation Estrada suffered after his downfall and arrest, he remains as popular as ever.
“What is astounding, and which compounds the problem, is that he continues to enjoy the affection of a great number of people. Strange as it may seem, their belief in his innocence of the offenses he is accused of does not appear to have been diminished by the Sandganbayan’s decision. To add to his tragedy, his mother is critically ill.”
They added: “With the multitude of others of like minds, we appeal and ask the President to extend full, free and absolute pardon to former President Joseph Estrada and that he unconditionally accept this act of clemency from the President.”
There were others who disagreed with the pardon given Estrada.
Not surprisingly, former President Fidel Ramos, prior to the announced grant of pardon, warned Mrs. Arroyo not to be “hasty” with her pending decision to grant Estrada full pardon.
“I warn the president not to be hasty,” Ramos said, adding that Mrs. Arroyo should consider the sacrifices made by many people in pursuing the plunder charge against Estrada. He said this pardon could be her downfall since Estrada can call on his supporters and stage a people power revolt against her, the way they did in 2001.
“This thing is bigger than GMA (Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo) or Erap. We are stakeholders here, the people of the Philippines,” Ramos said.
Estrada’s defense lawyer, Rene Saguisag, in a television interview, slammed Ramos’ sanctimonious position, bringing up the issue of the many scams under his regime, for which Ramos avoided trial and conviction by plotting, along with then Vice President Arroyo a year before the actual ouster of Estrada.
Saguisag said: “On Mr. Ramos statement that if Malacañang gives Estrada a pardon it would be a terrible calamity, we all have to look and start to investigate all the numerous scandals and corruption that had happened under his (Ramos) administration. Let’s start with Amari, the Centennial scam where billions of government funds were pocketed by corrupt government officials under his (Ramos) term. Let’s look at the corruption under this Arroyo regime, we have the $14 million bribery scandal that Mrs. Arroyo’s justice secretary Hernando “Nani” Perez was linked to (the approval of power contract of an Argentine Impsa), we have the P3 billion fertilizer funds scam of (Mrs. Arroyo’s) campaign fund raiser and former Agriculture undersecretary Jocelyn Jocjoc Bolante. It’s all graft and corruption in huge magnitude. Why do we always pin all on Erap, why it is always Erap? He had been detained for so many years and on charges of jueteng kickbacks (illegal number games) which do not even involve government funds,” he said.
Puno said the decision of Mrs. Arroyo to issue the pardon to Estrada underwent a grueling two months study.
Once freed from detention, Estrada plans on visiting his ailing 102-year-old mother at a hospital in San Juan Medical Center, with Ramos saying that Estrada had kept quiet about any political plans.
Estrada has said he is innocent of the corruption charges brought against him and that his prosecution was a conspiracy by the powerful elite, the church and President Arroyo.
Estrada is expected to leave his detention today, no longer accompanied by his police guards.
Following the grant of executive clemency, Mrs. Arroyo ordered Department of Interior and Local Government Secretary Ronaldo Puno to personally relay the order to Estrada at 9 a.m. today which will formalize his release from detention.
The order of Mrs. Arroyo which was read to the media by Acting Executive Secretary and concurrent Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye, used as basis the age of Estrada, who is now 70 years old and his six-and-a-half years in detention.
The order said all the political and civil rights of Estrada are now restored but the forfeitures imposed by the Sandiganbayan on his questioned properties “remain in full force and in full,” except for the bank account(s) he owned before his tenure as president.
Bunye read the statement of Mrs. Arroyo on the Estrada pardon.
“Whereas, this administration has a policy of releasing inmates who have reached the age of 70. Whereas, Joseph Ejercito Estrada has been under detention for six-and-a-half years; Whereas, Joseph Ejercito Estrada has publicly committed to no longer seek any elective position or office; IN VIEW HEREOF, and pursuant to the authority conferred upon me by the Constitution, I hereby grant executive clemency to Joseph Ejercito Estrada, convicted by the Sandiganbayan of plunder and imposed a penalty of reclusion perpetua. He is hereby restored to his civil and political rights,” part of Mrs. Arroyo’s order said.
“Upon acceptance of this pardon by Joseph Ejercito Estrada, this pardon shall take effect,” the order added.
Bunye said they did not wait for the written recommendation of the Department of Justice (DoJ) because its Acting Secretary Agnes Devanadera already verbally participated in the crafting of the order.
Bunye said the President merely exercised her presidential prerogative mandated by the Constitution.
A reliable Palace insider told the Tribune yesterday that Mrs. Arroyo added the “unenforceable” conditions, such as his not running for the presidency again as well as the bank accounts while he was president, were a “face-saving” act for Mrs. Arroyo, and meant also to “appease” some of her allies and anti-Estrada forces, who have been vocal against an Estrada pardon.
Contacted by the Tribune, sources from the Estrada camp said there was never any commitment made by Estrada of his not seeking the presidency, pointing out that when one’s political rights are restored, one can again vote and be voted upon.
They added that even that forfeiture proviso was questionable, since the Sandiganbayan decision was clear that only the so-called Boracay Mansion, along with the Erap Muslim Youth Foundation funds in the bank account were subject to forfeiture.
Estrada has consistently stated that neither properties are his and that the court could have them forfeited.
“Even the legitimacy of (Mrs. Arroyo) has not been established through that pardon,” they pointed out, saying that as she is sitting in Malacañang exercising the power and authority of a president, the grant of executive clemency must come from her. But this does not mean Erap’s recognition of her legitimacy. A de facto President can also grant such pardons.”
Senate President Manuel Villar, in a statement, welcomed the executive clemency extended to the Estrada by the Arroyo government. Despite the Sandiganbayan conviction, saying that “President Estrada remains in the heart of the masses.”
“The executive clemency extended to former President Joseph Estrada is a great step towards reconciliation, which is vital to our country’s unhindered passage to progress. This act emphasizes the value of humane consideration and compassionate justice,” the statement read.
Estrada’s son, Senate President Pro-Tempore, also welcomed the news of his father’s release, but also stressed that like his mother, former First Lady and Sen. Loi Estrada, he remains in the opposition.
Earlier, national leaders threw their support behind the move to grant executive pardon to the former leader in an effort to unite the country and help the government in realizing its dream for economic recovery.
In a letter dated Sept.16 - four days after the Sandiganbayan convicted Estrada of plunder – they pointed out to Mrs. Arroyo how the grant of absolute pardon to Estrada will heal the deep divisions in the country and help the government focus its efforts on pressing national problems.
The letter to Mrs. Arroyo was signed by Ricardo Cardinal Vidal, Villar and Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr.
The letter states in part: “For too long, since Edsa II which resulted in the relinquishment of the Presidency by former President Estrada, his indictment before the Sandiganbayan, detention without bail, have diverted the attention and efforts of our country from critical problems of poverty, development, terrorism, peace and order, and social tensions.
“The Sandiganbayan decision convicting former President Estrada, and sentencing him to “reclusion perpetua,” could lead to the deepening division among our people, and most disturbing perhaps, between those in the upper echelons of society and those beneath, among the masses of our people.
In their letter, Vidal, Villar and De Venecia noted that despite the humiliation Estrada suffered after his downfall and arrest, he remains as popular as ever.
“What is astounding, and which compounds the problem, is that he continues to enjoy the affection of a great number of people. Strange as it may seem, their belief in his innocence of the offenses he is accused of does not appear to have been diminished by the Sandganbayan’s decision. To add to his tragedy, his mother is critically ill.”
They added: “With the multitude of others of like minds, we appeal and ask the President to extend full, free and absolute pardon to former President Joseph Estrada and that he unconditionally accept this act of clemency from the President.”
There were others who disagreed with the pardon given Estrada.
Not surprisingly, former President Fidel Ramos, prior to the announced grant of pardon, warned Mrs. Arroyo not to be “hasty” with her pending decision to grant Estrada full pardon.
“I warn the president not to be hasty,” Ramos said, adding that Mrs. Arroyo should consider the sacrifices made by many people in pursuing the plunder charge against Estrada. He said this pardon could be her downfall since Estrada can call on his supporters and stage a people power revolt against her, the way they did in 2001.
“This thing is bigger than GMA (Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo) or Erap. We are stakeholders here, the people of the Philippines,” Ramos said.
Estrada’s defense lawyer, Rene Saguisag, in a television interview, slammed Ramos’ sanctimonious position, bringing up the issue of the many scams under his regime, for which Ramos avoided trial and conviction by plotting, along with then Vice President Arroyo a year before the actual ouster of Estrada.
Saguisag said: “On Mr. Ramos statement that if Malacañang gives Estrada a pardon it would be a terrible calamity, we all have to look and start to investigate all the numerous scandals and corruption that had happened under his (Ramos) administration. Let’s start with Amari, the Centennial scam where billions of government funds were pocketed by corrupt government officials under his (Ramos) term. Let’s look at the corruption under this Arroyo regime, we have the $14 million bribery scandal that Mrs. Arroyo’s justice secretary Hernando “Nani” Perez was linked to (the approval of power contract of an Argentine Impsa), we have the P3 billion fertilizer funds scam of (Mrs. Arroyo’s) campaign fund raiser and former Agriculture undersecretary Jocelyn Jocjoc Bolante. It’s all graft and corruption in huge magnitude. Why do we always pin all on Erap, why it is always Erap? He had been detained for so many years and on charges of jueteng kickbacks (illegal number games) which do not even involve government funds,” he said.
Puno said the decision of Mrs. Arroyo to issue the pardon to Estrada underwent a grueling two months study.
Once freed from detention, Estrada plans on visiting his ailing 102-year-old mother at a hospital in San Juan Medical Center, with Ramos saying that Estrada had kept quiet about any political plans.
Estrada has said he is innocent of the corruption charges brought against him and that his prosecution was a conspiracy by the powerful elite, the church and President Arroyo.
johnnypecayo wrote:
To my dear Friends:
Some of our kababayans (countrymen) in the greater San Diego area have been affected by the recent and on-going wildfires, and many of them have been evacuated to safe areas.
Because of this tragedy, it is time once again that we put our acts together, like what we did when the racial slur was committed by ABC-TV's September 30 episode of the highly controversial Desperate Housewives" against the Filipino and the Philippines, to provide assistance -- physically, morally and financially -- to obviate further sufferings of our kababayans from their present precarious situation.
Magtulungan po at sama-sama tayo! (Let's help one another, and let's be together in this endeavor!)
Marami pong salamat (Thank you very much),
JOHNNY M. PECAYO, MBA
Publisher and Editor-in-Chief, MANILA-U.S. TIMES; and
Chairman and CEO, Pilipino American Media Center (PAMC)
Update:
As of today, October 25, 444,291 acreage has been burned; 1,609 homes destroyed; 1,839 structures totally damaged; and 64 people (36 firefighters, and 28 civilians) have been injured. About one million residents of San Diego have been evacuated or voluntarily evacuated to safe places. -- PAMC
From the Philippine Consulate General in L.A.
In light of the ongoing fire that has struck seven counties in Southem Califomia, the Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles has opened an emergency line for Filipino nationals who are affected and needs assistance. Filipino nationals affected by the "fire storm" may call (213) 268-9990.
A consular team headed by Vice Consul Jim Tito San Agustin will be going toSan Diego tomorrow to visit the evacuation sites thereat and assist the Filipino nationals affected by this disastrous fire. They will also meet with some officials to coordinate evacuation.
Filipino organizations arercencouraged to contribute in any way they can to help alleviate those affected by the ongoing tragedy.
Vice Consul Edward Yulo coordinates the Disaster Relief Response.
Some of our kababayans (countrymen) in the greater San Diego area have been affected by the recent and on-going wildfires, and many of them have been evacuated to safe areas.
Because of this tragedy, it is time once again that we put our acts together, like what we did when the racial slur was committed by ABC-TV's September 30 episode of the highly controversial Desperate Housewives" against the Filipino and the Philippines, to provide assistance -- physically, morally and financially -- to obviate further sufferings of our kababayans from their present precarious situation.
Magtulungan po at sama-sama tayo! (Let's help one another, and let's be together in this endeavor!)
Marami pong salamat (Thank you very much),
JOHNNY M. PECAYO, MBA
Publisher and Editor-in-Chief, MANILA-U.S. TIMES; and
Chairman and CEO, Pilipino American Media Center (PAMC)
Update:
As of today, October 25, 444,291 acreage has been burned; 1,609 homes destroyed; 1,839 structures totally damaged; and 64 people (36 firefighters, and 28 civilians) have been injured. About one million residents of San Diego have been evacuated or voluntarily evacuated to safe places. -- PAMC
From the Philippine Consulate General in L.A.
In light of the ongoing fire that has struck seven counties in Southem Califomia, the Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles has opened an emergency line for Filipino nationals who are affected and needs assistance. Filipino nationals affected by the "fire storm" may call (213) 268-9990.
A consular team headed by Vice Consul Jim Tito San Agustin will be going toSan Diego tomorrow to visit the evacuation sites thereat and assist the Filipino nationals affected by this disastrous fire. They will also meet with some officials to coordinate evacuation.
Filipino organizations arercencouraged to contribute in any way they can to help alleviate those affected by the ongoing tragedy.
Vice Consul Edward Yulo coordinates the Disaster Relief Response.
*****
Focus on recovery, Bush tells fire victims
The president pledges more federal help to fight the remaining nine blazes, house the evacuees and rebuild communities. 'We're not going to forget you,' he says.
By Tony Perry and Ari B. Bloomekatz, Los Angeles Times Staff Writers October 25, 2007
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PRESIDENT BUSH (infront) tours the devastation in Rancho Bernardo in San Diego county. -- L.A. Times photo
SAN DIEGO, CA -- After touring one partially gutted neighborhood in the path of Southern California's firestorms, President Bush noted "a lot of people are suffering," but urged those affected by the catastrophe to begin turning their attention to recovery.
Speaking at an Escondido fire command center, Bush pledged additional federal help to fight the nine blazes still burning across the region, as well as an infusion of funds to help victims and communities rebuild.
"We're not going to forget you in Washington, D.C.," he said.
"We're not going to forget you in Washington, D.C.," he said.
The newly released federal aid will cover temporary housing, cleanup and other immediate needs. In addition, loans will be offered to qualified residents and businesses to help them rebuild.
Earlier, Bush took a half-hour aerial tour over Rancho Bernardo. The tour offered a sweeping view of fire-ravaged Southern California, including vast blackened hills and a tiled-roof mansion spared on top of a hill.
The president stopped for 10 minutes at the burned home of Jay and Kendra Jeffcoat in Rancho Bernardo. Little remained but a spiral staircase and a piece of wall bearing the turquoise-and-pink tile giving the address. Other nearby homes also had been burned, but across the street a two-story, tile-and-stucco home appeared unscathed.
The president sidestepped questions about comparisons between the wildfires and Hurricane Katrina, which remains a sore point for the administration because of a much-criticized relief effort. "There's all kinds of time for historians to compare," he said.
Tears streamed from the eyes of Kimber Fowler, 20, when she spoke with Bush at a Rancho Bernardo victim service center.
"I was just going to shake his hand, and he gave me a hug, and I just fell apart because it made it real," said Fowler, whose home nearby burned down.
Fran Townsend, assistant to the president for Homeland Security and Counterterrorism, said at least 2,205 structures had been counted as lost so far in the fires, about half the total of the 2003 Southern California firestorms that lasted 10 days. The fires this year have consumed far more acreage, however.
Also today, the reward fund reached $150,000 for information leading to the conviction of the arsonist responsible for the Santiago fire in Orange County, which has burned nearly 20,000 acres and destroyed 21 structures, including nine homes. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the FBI and Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger each kicked in $50,000.
"The person or people who did this are exceptionally lucky or they have some knowledge of when they can do the most damage when you set a fire," Orange County Fire Authority Chief Chip Prather said at a news conference.
The death toll from the fires appeared to be rising as well.
Two bodies were found in the charred remains of a home in Escondido; authorities had mistakenly reported earlier that the home was in Poway. The victims apparently had been warned to evacuate but refused, said Jan Caldwell, spokeswoman for the San Diego County Sheriff's Department. The bodies were tentatively identified as those of a man and a woman, but no names had been released.
One other death has been officially attributed to the fires; 10 others have been linked to them. Sixty-four people have been injured.
State officials said that as of early today there were still 22,195 people in 51 shelters, with the bulk -- 18,154 -- in San Diego County. The American Red Cross is operating 24 of those shelters, with 6,000 people in them.
The crowd at one of the biggest evacuation centers, San Diego's Qualcomm Stadium, was dwindling today as more evacuation orders were lifted. At dawn, officials estimated that fewer than 1,000 people remained, down from about 12,000.
As the stadium begins to empty out and more people try to figure out what comes next, the service center will be there to help, said center director Debra Fischle Faulk. "People are going to need help finding temporary housing, and we're trying to get a list countywide, and also hotel vacancies."
Laura Montelongo contemplated the uncertainty of her situation as she smoked a cigarette this morning outside the Steele Canyon High School evacuation center in southern San Diego County.
A hill in front of the high school was burned over but also dotted with homes that had somehow survived the onslaught of the 73,000-acre Harris fire.
A FIRETRUCK AND A FIREMAN, with a ball of fire providing as a backdrop. -- L.A. Times photo
BRYAN BRADWAY of San Diego county's Damage Assessment Team inspecting the area. -- L.A. Times' photo
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