Estrada reiterates forgiveness for Chavit’s misdeeds during historic visit to Vigan

Written by Writer on Saturday, October 25th, 2008

Estrada reiterates forgiveness for Chavit’s ‘misdeeds’ during historic visit to Vigan

Former President Joseph Estrada visited Vigan on Friday, as part of his Lakbay Pasasalamat tour.

Asked by the press if he was not afraid to visit Vigan, considering this is the bailiwick of former Governor and Deputy National Security Adviser Luis Chavit Singson who initiated and testified against him at the impeachment trial. Estrada said he was never afraid of Chavit or of any of the people who conspired against him because his conscience is clear and he maintains that he is innocent of the accusations of plunder that was hurled against him.

Estrada spokesperson Margaux Salcedo explained that former President Estrada “finds strength in the overwhelming reception that the people have been giving him and in places like Vigan, where there have been reported cases of political killings, he removes his fears by a strengthened sense of purpose to champion the cause of the poor and the slighted.”

Asked by the media if he would forgive Chavit and shake Chavit’s hand if extended to him, Estrada said, “Anytime. I have already forgiven them all.”

Quoting Mahatma Gandhi, Estrada explained, “Revenge is for the weak. Forgiveness is an attribute of the strong. That is why I have forgiven them all.”

Estrada visited several towns in Ilocos Norte today, including Paoay, Vigan and Badoc, where he was invited to be guest of honor at the Juan Luna Day Commemorative Celebration and was joined by Rep. Bongbong Marcos.–Francis Earl E. Cueto

The Manila Times
Saturday, October 25, 2008