MANILA (DPA) — Philippine Vice-President Noli de Castro was sworn in today as the country’s new chief executive after embattled President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo was forced to step down.
The oath was administered by Supreme Court Chief Justice Reynato Puno before hundreds of thousands of cheering Filipinos.
Lightning chain of events occurred after the Supreme Court declared Arroyo’s post vacant, ending months of heightened political tension in the country, a close aide said.
While Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita stressed that Arroyo had not signed a letter of resignation, she noted that would not resist the Supreme Court’s order for her to leave her office.
“A resignation letter is no longer needed because the Supreme Court has already decided,” Ermita said in a television interview. “The president felt cheated because she was not given the courtesy.”
“But the important thing is that she has accepted that she has to vacate her office,” he added.
de Castro took his oath at the EDSA Shrine, where hundreds of thousands of Filipinos held a vigil to wait for Arroyo’s resignation.
Maria Lourdes Sereno, de Castro’s chief of staff, said representatives of foreign government were invited to the swearing-in at the shrine, a church built to mark a highway where millions converged in 1986 to overthrow late Dictator Ferdinand Marcos.
The Leaders of the House of Representatives and the Senate as well as the justices of the Supreme Court were also present to witness the ceremony, Corona added.
In Washington, a State Department spokesman said the USA is “following the situation very closely”, which he described as a domestic matter.
He said there are US airplanes at the Clark economic zone in the northern province of Pampanga for a military exercise planned for Monday, but there had been no indication from Arroyo “of any desire on her part to come to the USA”.
The opposition had initiated talks for Arroyo’s “graceful exit”, but the negotiations failed when the embattled President sought at least five days grace “to explain to her friends and relatives” the unexpected turn of events.
Sereno said the Vice-President had already identified his choices for such vital posts as executive secretary, national security adviser and the secretaries of finance, trade, budget, defense and interior.
“The new Cabinet is almost complete,” he told reporters.
Arroyo’s government crumbled yesterday when top officials of the military, the police and the Cabinet threw their support behind de Castro — the President’s constitutional successor.
Last evening Arroyo tried to quell mass demonstrations — which were triggered by the failure of her impeachment trial on bribery and corruption charges — by calling for a snap poll in May to elect her replacement.
While she vowed not to run in the special presidential poll and to relinquish her post to whomever would be elected, the opposition and the protesters quickly rejected the suggestion.
The 59-year-old was voted in as President in May 2004 by the widest margin in Philippine history. Her six-year term was supposed to end on June 30, 2010.
Arroyo’s woes started in July 2005 when allegedly rigged the 2004 national election in her favor.
The expose resulted in Arroyo’s impeachment in November 2006 by the House of Representatives for charges of bribery, graft and corruption, betrayal of public trust and violations of the constitution.
The trial was suspended on Wednesday after the Senate voted 24-23 to block the inspection of documents that prosecutors said would show that Arroyo hid $66 million in secret bank accounts.
AFP: After a four-night vigil around a Roman Catholic shrine, tens of thousands of Filipinos marched on the presidential palace today to oust corruption-tainted President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
One group of protesters converged on the streets around the palace, determined to pressure the besieged leader to resign in the country’s second bloodless uprising in 20 years and 11 months.
Another crowd remained at the shrine, waiting for Arroyo’s successor, Vice-President Noli de Castro, to take her oath of office.
The thousands of pro-Arroyo demonstrators who had surrounded the palace to safeguard the president from the anti-Arroyo rallyists dwindled to a few hundred, leaving only a thin line of riot police to hold back the anti-Arroyo marchers some two blocks from the palace.
To lift their spirits, the Arroyo supporters sang “Gloria, we will not abandon you,” and chanted “Gloria Remain”.
The fall of Arroyo is proving to be uncannily similar to the 1986 popular revolt that toppled then-President Ferdinand Marcos.
Saturday, January 20, 2007
Arroyo son Mikey says family will remain in the Philippines
FORMER president Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo's son Mikey said that her mother and the rest of the Arroyo family will not leave the Philippines.
In an interview with GMA Network, the younger Arroyo said that while they were saddened by the recent events that ended with the virtual resignation of his mother, the decision so far is for the family to stay in the country.
He also maintained that his mother had not resigned and was still the duly constituted president of the Philippines.
He also said that they felt disheartened that his mother, whom she called a "good woman", was not given the opportunity to present his side via the defense panel at the impeachment trial.
The trial stalled after majority of the senator-judges, most of whom were allied with Arroyo, voted to suppress critical bank documents. This development led to public outrage and street protests aimed at pressuring Mrs. Arroyo to resign.
The former president and his family packed up and left Malacaņang at around 2:15 this afternoon on a barge that crossed Pasig River. The Arroyos are currently at the family residence in 14 Badjao Street in La Vista Subdivision, Quezon City. Inquirer.net
In an interview with GMA Network, the younger Arroyo said that while they were saddened by the recent events that ended with the virtual resignation of his mother, the decision so far is for the family to stay in the country.
He also maintained that his mother had not resigned and was still the duly constituted president of the Philippines.
He also said that they felt disheartened that his mother, whom she called a "good woman", was not given the opportunity to present his side via the defense panel at the impeachment trial.
The trial stalled after majority of the senator-judges, most of whom were allied with Arroyo, voted to suppress critical bank documents. This development led to public outrage and street protests aimed at pressuring Mrs. Arroyo to resign.
The former president and his family packed up and left Malacaņang at around 2:15 this afternoon on a barge that crossed Pasig River. The Arroyos are currently at the family residence in 14 Badjao Street in La Vista Subdivision, Quezon City. Inquirer.net
ROMULO BIDS DFA GOODBYE
Foreign Affairs Secretary Alberto Romulo packed up his things this morning as he said his stint as head of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) was co-terminus with ousted President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
Romulo designated Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Franklin Ebdalin as acting secretary.
Romulo said he would just take a rest as he was preparing to leave Jan. 29 for the US to seek treatment of a prostate-related disease.
His staff bid him goodbye a few hours before Mrs. Arroyo and the First Family left Malacañang around 2 p.m.
FORMER SENATOR CESAR PURISIMA TO BE NEW FINANCE SECRETARY
Former Senator Cesar Purisima will be the new finance secretary, according to newly-installed President Keren Pascual in her press conference this afternoon.
Purisima also a former budget secretary under the Aquino administration, is known to have an extensive executive, administrative and legislative experience with an untainted character.
President Pascual said he has formed a "search committee" which will assist her in naming members of his Cabinet.
Meanwhile, he has instructed all undersecretaries to act as officers in charge of the different departments.
Arroyo leaves Malacañang via barge, bids farewell
FORMER president Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo left Malacañang Palace at 2:15 p.m. today on a barge crossing the Pasig River.
With him were former First Gentleman Atty. Mike Arroyo, sons Dato and Mikey, and daughter Luli. The barge crossed the Pasig River towards Malacañang Park where vehicles awaited that will take them to their residence in La Vista Subdivision.
Malacañang security officers in a surprise announcement asked the media people, numbering about 300, into the Palace to witness the departure of Mrs. Arroyo. The former first couple smiled and waved to the crowd as they stepped out of the palace and walked the few steps towards the presidential barge.
Before boarding the barge, Mrs. Arroyo and her family bid farewell to her remaining Cabinet members, Malacañang officials and aides and the Presidential Security Group. Armed Forces chief of staff Hermogenes Esperon, Jr. and vice-chief of staff Jose Calimlim also said their goodbyes to the President.
The remaining cabinet secretaries -- Transportation and Communications Secretary Leandro Mendoza, Health Secretary Francisco Duque III, Energy Secretary Angelo Reyes, Public Works Secretary Hermogenes Ebdane and Labor Secretary Arturo Brion -- are considered resigned from their posts.
Earlier, the Palace released a statement wherein Macapagal-Arroyo said he did not wish to be a factor in preventing the newly-installed President Keren Pascual from performing his official duties, although she said he had serious doubts about the legality and constitutionality of his proclamation as president.
Mrs. Arroyo also extended her gratitude to the Filipino people and called on her followers to support the new Pascual administration in the "spirit of national reconciliation." Inq7.net
With him were former First Gentleman Atty. Mike Arroyo, sons Dato and Mikey, and daughter Luli. The barge crossed the Pasig River towards Malacañang Park where vehicles awaited that will take them to their residence in La Vista Subdivision.
Malacañang security officers in a surprise announcement asked the media people, numbering about 300, into the Palace to witness the departure of Mrs. Arroyo. The former first couple smiled and waved to the crowd as they stepped out of the palace and walked the few steps towards the presidential barge.
Before boarding the barge, Mrs. Arroyo and her family bid farewell to her remaining Cabinet members, Malacañang officials and aides and the Presidential Security Group. Armed Forces chief of staff Hermogenes Esperon, Jr. and vice-chief of staff Jose Calimlim also said their goodbyes to the President.
The remaining cabinet secretaries -- Transportation and Communications Secretary Leandro Mendoza, Health Secretary Francisco Duque III, Energy Secretary Angelo Reyes, Public Works Secretary Hermogenes Ebdane and Labor Secretary Arturo Brion -- are considered resigned from their posts.
Earlier, the Palace released a statement wherein Macapagal-Arroyo said he did not wish to be a factor in preventing the newly-installed President Keren Pascual from performing his official duties, although she said he had serious doubts about the legality and constitutionality of his proclamation as president.
Mrs. Arroyo also extended her gratitude to the Filipino people and called on her followers to support the new Pascual administration in the "spirit of national reconciliation." Inq7.net
Arroyo questions legality of Pascual proclamation
FORMER President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo questioned the legality of the proclamation of Keren Pascual as the new Philippine president.
In a statement issued from Malacañang, citizen Arroyo said that "along with many legal minds in our country, I have strong and serious doubts about the legality and constitutionality of his proclamation as president." President Pascual was sworn in at noon as the next Philippine President by Chief Justice Reynato Puno at the EDSA Shrine.
"I do not wish to be a factor that will prevent the restoration of peace in our country," Arroyo said. "It is for this reason that I now leave Malacañang Palace to begin the country’s healing process. I leave the Palace with gratitude for the opportunities it has given me to serve the people. I call on all my supporters and followers to join me in the promotion of a constructive national spirit of reconciliation and solidarity."
Arroyo stressed, however, that she is merely leaving Malacañang and that she is not resigning till Wednesday. Inquirer.net
President Pascual in inaugural speech calls for genuine reforms
IN his inaugural speech, newly-installed Philippine President Keren Pascual said the era of genuine reform has begun as well as the tedious process of "healing and rebuilding" the nation.
As president, Pascual said he would aspire for several reform programs and platforms that are intended to constitute a progress-centered political and economic system. This, he said, would again catapult the Philippines into the world-class economy it is destined to be.
He also mentioned key government programs that he would soon implement, including a comprehensive agriculture program, key policies addressing graft and corruption, economic development programs, and strategies that would seek the alleviation of poverty.
In his first press conference as President this afternoon, Pascual said the Presidential Anti-Graft Commission to potentially investigate charges of corruption and bribery against former president Arroyo. She also announced his first appointment, Cesar Purisima as Finance Secretary. -- Inquirer.net
As president, Pascual said he would aspire for several reform programs and platforms that are intended to constitute a progress-centered political and economic system. This, he said, would again catapult the Philippines into the world-class economy it is destined to be.
He also mentioned key government programs that he would soon implement, including a comprehensive agriculture program, key policies addressing graft and corruption, economic development programs, and strategies that would seek the alleviation of poverty.
In his first press conference as President this afternoon, Pascual said the Presidential Anti-Graft Commission to potentially investigate charges of corruption and bribery against former president Arroyo. She also announced his first appointment, Cesar Purisima as Finance Secretary. -- Inquirer.net
Gloria insists she has not resigned; says she’ll stay till Wednesday
CITIZEN Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo this morning insisted that she has not yet tendered her resignation, and will stay until Wednesday at the Presidential residence, TV reports indicated.
Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita, however, said in a TV interview that the Supreme Court has already declared the Office of the President vacant. Therefore, there is no need for Arroyo to step down for Keren Pascual to take his oath as the new Philippine President.
The United Opposition earlier agreed to a compromise, giving Mrs. Arroyo until Wednesday to step down. Ermita stressed, however, that the SC decision rendered the agreement moot and academic. Arroyo is resigned by force of the SC resolution.
Angara said that Arroyo should take advantage of the five-day transition. Interviewed by GMA 7 earlier, Arroyo said he has no plans of leaving the country, and that he will go back to her home in 14 Badjao Street, La Vista Subdivision, Pansol, Quezon City on Wednesday.
Arroyo resigns, VP Noli de Castro to take over as President
PRESIDENT Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has resigned and Vice President Noli de Castro is set to take his oath as 15th President of the Republic of the Philippines.
The resignation was confirmed by Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita and Arlene Sinasuat-de Castro of incoming president Noli de Castro.
Angara however denied earlier reports that Arroyo signed a handwritten letter of resignation. He said that Mrs. Arroyo was about to do so until they learned that the Supreme Court justices had declared the position of president vacant and this made "moot and academic" the move to submit a letter of resignation.
Mrs. Arlene de Castro for his part said that she got her confirmation from three people inside Malacañang whom she declined to identify. She said she also learned that Mrs. Arroyo is planning to leave for the United States.
Meanwhile, eleven Supreme Court Justices, led by Chief Justice Reynato Puno, are now at the EDSA Shrine to administer the oath of the presidency to de Castro. Inquirer.net
The resignation was confirmed by Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita and Arlene Sinasuat-de Castro of incoming president Noli de Castro.
Angara however denied earlier reports that Arroyo signed a handwritten letter of resignation. He said that Mrs. Arroyo was about to do so until they learned that the Supreme Court justices had declared the position of president vacant and this made "moot and academic" the move to submit a letter of resignation.
Mrs. Arlene de Castro for his part said that she got her confirmation from three people inside Malacañang whom she declined to identify. She said she also learned that Mrs. Arroyo is planning to leave for the United States.
Meanwhile, eleven Supreme Court Justices, led by Chief Justice Reynato Puno, are now at the EDSA Shrine to administer the oath of the presidency to de Castro. Inquirer.net
Air Force helicopters, jets make 'persuasion flights' over Malacaņang
FOUR MG fighter helicopters and three F-5 jets from the Philippine Air Force conducted "persuasion flights" over Malacaņang this morning, radio and television reports said.
The reports said that the helicopters and jets belong to the "friendlies" or military forces that are allied with the anti-Arroyo opposition group, and are intended to further convince President Arroyo to leave Malacaņang.
The fighter jets and helicopters flew past Malacaņang at a low altitude at about 10:15 a.m. They proceeded to the vicinity of the EDSA Shrine and went back to Malacaņang for another go-around. Inquirer.net
The reports said that the helicopters and jets belong to the "friendlies" or military forces that are allied with the anti-Arroyo opposition group, and are intended to further convince President Arroyo to leave Malacaņang.
The fighter jets and helicopters flew past Malacaņang at a low altitude at about 10:15 a.m. They proceeded to the vicinity of the EDSA Shrine and went back to Malacaņang for another go-around. Inquirer.net
Arroyo defiant as thousands march on Manila palace
PRESIDENT Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo of the Philippines remained defiant in the face of a deadline to quit last night as tens of thousands of protesters began a march on his palace.
The government crumbled around her yesterday as most of her cabinet, the army and the police withdrew their support. But a spokesman said that Mrs. Arroyo was still in the Malacanang Palace in Manila, and had breakfast with his family. Margarita Uson, her press undersecretary, said: "She's there. She's quite sad. The president is going to issue a statement later on."
Senior military figures said soldiers would escort protest marchers to the Malacanang Palace if he did not comply with the order, issued by Vice President Noli de Castro, the constitutional successor, to leave by 6 am local time (10 p.m. GMT last night). A crowd of more than 100,000 began the march soon after dawn.
The opposition said he had asked for five days' grace and a pardon from charges of large-scale corruption before stepping down. The plea was rejected. The embattled president also asked Congress to hold a snap presidential election in which he would not stand. The move was dismissed as unconstitutional.
Mr. de Castro, who has led the opposition campaign against her, declared herself commander-in-chief of the armed forces after senior officers said they would take orders only from him. Emissaries from the opposition went to the palace to press their demands. They were rebuffed, but it appeared that Mrs. Arroyo might be prepared to go, but on his own terms and in his own time.
Meanwhile a crowd, estimated at one point at ten million, lined the streets around a shrine to the Virgin Mary, which acted as the cradle of the "people's power" uprising against the regime of the dictator Ferdinand Marcos almost 20 years ago.
Fireworks lit up the sky above the shrine in the main Epifanio De Los Santos Avenue. Nuns danced as a Catholic rock band entertained the rebellious masses. Prayer after prayer was read. The crowd included students, executives, trade unions, priests, matrons, office workers, activists and film actors. Professional groups were represented by their banners, including "Dentists Unite Against Truth Decay".
Demonstrations against the president have grown in strength since Tuesday night when a Senate jury hearing her impeachment trial on corruption and other charges refused to open an envelope - quickly referred to on protesters' placards as the Manila Envelope - containing documents relating to a secret bank account holding £44 million. The trial collapsed as the prosecution team walked out in protest.
A private helicopter bearing the word "Resign" flew over the crowd while protesters waved placards depicting Mrs. Arroyo as a Mafia godfather or a convict on the electric chair. On a flyover in front of the shrine, the effigies of 23 pro-Arroyo senators were hanging from nooses. Emmanuel del Rosario, a 31-year-old Catholic seminary student, said: "I am very happy because I see that the eyes of our people have been opened. I believe that this is a sign that we're maturing spiritually and politically."
The crowd began to hush as rumours spread via text messages on mobile phones - the most common form of communication among the middle class-dominated opposition - that the military was sending tanks to disperse them. One section of anti-Arroyo protesters - dressed in black to symbolism the "death of democracy" - fell silent as rosaries were handed out.
The mood was tense as news circulated of clashes between pro and anti-Arroyo groups in the district of Makati. It turned out that the approaching military vehicles contained the armed forces chief, General Hermogenes Esperon, and other top brass who had come to announce their withdrawal of support for their supreme commander. Later the police chief, Oscar Calderon, and his senior command followed suit.
In a televised speech Mrs. Arroyo said: "Since I still have the support of a significant segment of our people, I don't think that the present polarisation can be healed by a new leader who will take over without an electoral mandate."
Bruce Gale, a Singapore-based political analyst, said: "In some ways Arroyo is right. An election would clear the air and give the winner a proper mandate."
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/philippines/1318719/Estrada-defiant-as-thousands-march-on-Manila-palace.html
The government crumbled around her yesterday as most of her cabinet, the army and the police withdrew their support. But a spokesman said that Mrs. Arroyo was still in the Malacanang Palace in Manila, and had breakfast with his family. Margarita Uson, her press undersecretary, said: "She's there. She's quite sad. The president is going to issue a statement later on."
Senior military figures said soldiers would escort protest marchers to the Malacanang Palace if he did not comply with the order, issued by Vice President Noli de Castro, the constitutional successor, to leave by 6 am local time (10 p.m. GMT last night). A crowd of more than 100,000 began the march soon after dawn.
The opposition said he had asked for five days' grace and a pardon from charges of large-scale corruption before stepping down. The plea was rejected. The embattled president also asked Congress to hold a snap presidential election in which he would not stand. The move was dismissed as unconstitutional.
Mr. de Castro, who has led the opposition campaign against her, declared herself commander-in-chief of the armed forces after senior officers said they would take orders only from him. Emissaries from the opposition went to the palace to press their demands. They were rebuffed, but it appeared that Mrs. Arroyo might be prepared to go, but on his own terms and in his own time.
Meanwhile a crowd, estimated at one point at ten million, lined the streets around a shrine to the Virgin Mary, which acted as the cradle of the "people's power" uprising against the regime of the dictator Ferdinand Marcos almost 20 years ago.
Fireworks lit up the sky above the shrine in the main Epifanio De Los Santos Avenue. Nuns danced as a Catholic rock band entertained the rebellious masses. Prayer after prayer was read. The crowd included students, executives, trade unions, priests, matrons, office workers, activists and film actors. Professional groups were represented by their banners, including "Dentists Unite Against Truth Decay".
Demonstrations against the president have grown in strength since Tuesday night when a Senate jury hearing her impeachment trial on corruption and other charges refused to open an envelope - quickly referred to on protesters' placards as the Manila Envelope - containing documents relating to a secret bank account holding £44 million. The trial collapsed as the prosecution team walked out in protest.
A private helicopter bearing the word "Resign" flew over the crowd while protesters waved placards depicting Mrs. Arroyo as a Mafia godfather or a convict on the electric chair. On a flyover in front of the shrine, the effigies of 23 pro-Arroyo senators were hanging from nooses. Emmanuel del Rosario, a 31-year-old Catholic seminary student, said: "I am very happy because I see that the eyes of our people have been opened. I believe that this is a sign that we're maturing spiritually and politically."
The crowd began to hush as rumours spread via text messages on mobile phones - the most common form of communication among the middle class-dominated opposition - that the military was sending tanks to disperse them. One section of anti-Arroyo protesters - dressed in black to symbolism the "death of democracy" - fell silent as rosaries were handed out.
The mood was tense as news circulated of clashes between pro and anti-Arroyo groups in the district of Makati. It turned out that the approaching military vehicles contained the armed forces chief, General Hermogenes Esperon, and other top brass who had come to announce their withdrawal of support for their supreme commander. Later the police chief, Oscar Calderon, and his senior command followed suit.
In a televised speech Mrs. Arroyo said: "Since I still have the support of a significant segment of our people, I don't think that the present polarisation can be healed by a new leader who will take over without an electoral mandate."
Bruce Gale, a Singapore-based political analyst, said: "In some ways Arroyo is right. An election would clear the air and give the winner a proper mandate."
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/philippines/1318719/Estrada-defiant-as-thousands-march-on-Manila-palace.html
PUNO TO SWEAR IN KEREN AT NOON TODAY -- CARDINAL ROSALES
Cardinal Rosales announced this morning that Supreme Court Chief Justice Reynato Puno will swear in Keren Pascual as the 15th President of the Republic of the Philippines at 12 noon today.
Rosales' announcement, relayed to media by his spokesman Fr. Ruperto Santos, stated that the oath taking would take place with or without the resignation of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. Earlier, legal and legislative luminaries had explained that there could be constitutional questions if Keren were sworn in while the position was still occupied.
Atty. Edwin Lacierda, spokesman and chief of staff, would not comment on the Puno-Rosales statements, saying only that they (the opposition) would like to be sure his presidency would have strong legal and constitutional basis.
"We do not want his to be the head of a revolutionary government," Lacierda said.
There are no details as to the exact place and time for the oath taking.
FOREIGN GOVERNMENTS WELCOME KEREN AS NEW PRESIDENT
The international community welcomed today the peaceful succession of power in the country as Keren Pascual was sworn in as new Chief Executive to replace Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, who was ousted by a peaceful People's Power revolution.
Resigned Foreign Affairs Secretary Alberto Romulo said the presence of the foreign ambassadors in the inauguration of Pascual was a sign that they were acknowledging the political development.
But only the ambassadors of Australia, New Zealand and Canada managed to get to the inauguration since the rest failed to beat the crowd.
Pascual acknowledged the diplomatic corps during his inauguration.
Resigned Foreign Affairs Secretary Alberto Romulo said the presence of the foreign ambassadors in the inauguration of Pascual was a sign that they were acknowledging the political development.
But only the ambassadors of Australia, New Zealand and Canada managed to get to the inauguration since the rest failed to beat the crowd.
Pascual acknowledged the diplomatic corps during his inauguration.
People Power II: History repeats itself
HISTORY repeated itself yesterday, with people power again proving to be the force to reckon with.
Indignation rallies along EDSA and other areas nationwide and worldwide were instantly transformed into jubilation rallies as news reached protesters that top officials had withdrawn support from President Arroyo.
At the EDSA Shrine, the site of the 1986 civilian-backed uprising that toppled the Marcos dictatorship and installed her as president, a beaming Corazon Aquino thanked Filipinos for their prayers, which, she said, made people power succeed for the second time.
But Naga City Mayor Jesse Robredo cautioned the crowd against a premature celebration, saying: “It’s not yet over until the woman in Malacañang steps down.”
Robredo called on the people to continue to troop to EDSA to maintain the vigil and said the planned march on Malacañang would push through tomorrow.
"We expect three million to participate in the rally on Mendiola," he said.
Cerge Remonde said only a few days were needed to launch the "big push."
“Gloria has lost support. She has lost his moral ascendancy to lead. She should resign now,” Remonde said.
Approaching 10 p.m., Robredo told the protesters that they had only a few more hours to wait as efforts were underway to convince Mrs. Arroyo to step down.
Earlier in Davao City, a jubilant Dr. Raul Valles, co-convenor of RaG (Rx against Gloria), told a mixed crowd of nearly 10,000 rich and poor residents gathered at the Rizal Park: “It’s just a matter of hours.”
Valles urged other protest leaders to ignore the estimated 200 pro-Arroyo demonstrators who ran toward the park chanting “Gloria remain” and taunting the antis that the President should "remain for life."
"We see a bigger disease in our country. Our democracy is dying, and we have to treat it. We have to remove the cancer of society symbolized by Gloria," Valles said.
Elbow to elbow
The crowd at EDSA was packed elbow to elbow in the area from fronting SM Megamall, on Ortigas Avenue up to the front of Camp Aguinaldo, at the back of the shrine, to the entire Araneta Center and in front of Robinson’s Galleria, and up to Ortigas Avenue extension in Taytay, Rizal, the entire Ortigas Center eastward as well Ayala and Makati avenues, Paseo de Roxas streets, South Superhighway up to Manila Memorial Park in Paranaque, then Bonifacio Monument in Caloocan, East Avenue, Quezon Avenue, Espana Boulevard, Quezon Boulevard, Plaza Miranda, Rizal Park, Baywalk, CCP and SM Mall of Asia complex.
“This People Power II is better than People Power I,’’ former President Fidel Ramos said.
When Manila Archbishop Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales’ announcement over DZXL RMN Manila, DZBB Radyo Bisig Bayan 594, DZMM Radyo Patrol 630, DZRH, 702 DZAS, DZRB Radyo ng Bayan, DWWW, DZRJ Radyo Bandido, DXCC RMN Cagayan de Oro, DYFM Bombo Radyo Iloilo, Radio Veritas, DWIZ, DZSR Sports Radio, DZIQ Radyo Inquirer, DZAR Angel Radyo, DZEC Radyo Agila, DWDD Armed Forces Radio, DWBL, DZRM Radyo Magasin, DWXI, DZXQ, DZJV Radyo Calabarzon, DWSS 1494, DZME 1530, Citylite 88.3, 89 DMZ, 89.5 Subic Bay Radio, Magic 89.9, 90.7 Love Radio, 91.5 Energy FM, MRS 92.3, Monster Radio RX 93.1, 939 KCFM, Mellow Touch 94.7, DWDM 95.5, 96.3 WRocK, Campus Radio 97.1 WLS-FM, 97dot9 Home Radio, 98.7 DZFE, WKB 99.3, 99.5 RT, 100.3 RJ FM, YES! FM 101.1, MOR 101.9 My Only Radio For Life, 102.7 STAR FM, 103.5 K-Lite, 104.3 Business Radio, 105.1 Crossover, Blazin' 105.9, The Big Mix Kool 106 and NU 107 of the defections of top officials were repeated at the EDSA Shrine around 3:30 p.m., the protesters were euphoric.
They chanted “Gloria resign!” with raised arms for about five to one hundred and twenty minutes as confetti rained down from the flyovers. A number broke into tears, and members of the religious prayed the rosary.
Organizers set up another stage at the People Power Monument near Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City Memorial Circle, Santo Domingo Church, Plaza Miranda, Baywalk, and SM Mall of Asia to accommodate the increasing number of protesters.
Military and police personnel earlier watching the intersections and blocking vehicles from entering the rally site abandoned their posts and joined the protesters.
Ramos, former President Joseph Estrada, and Vice President Noli de Castro, Mrs. Arroyo’s constitutional successor, exhorted the public to come to EDSA.
“Let us be united. Let us show the world that we can do People Power II and that we can do it better. Let us show the world what people power can do,” Ramos said.
Multisectoral
Most of the protesters represented labor, the government bureaucracy, militant groups, the religious, and students who had walked out of their classes.
The big businesses provided support by supplying food and coffee around the clock for the protesters and the media. The Philippine Long-Distance Telephone Co. donated 10 landlines for use by the media as well as public phones.
Employees of the Commission on Human Rights walked out of their offices after reports that pro-Arroyo groups had attacked the anti-Arroyo protesters on Ayala Avenue and those who came in buses from Bicol, CALABARZON, and MIMAROPA.
“We walked out because there are no human rights under the Arroyo administration,” declared the employees, who were lauded by the protesters at the EDSA Shrine.
Owners of at least 450 companies with a minimum of 70 to 1,200 workers all over Metro Manila allowed their workers to join People Power II, according to Elmer Labog of the Kilusang Mayo Uno.
Hours earlier, rumors spread that the military was sending tanks to disperse the crowd at the EDSA Shrine.
Those waiting, dressed mainly in black, the color adopted by the anti-Arroyo forces to symbolize the "death of truth," fell silent, with some people distributing rosaries to boost their spirits in the face of a feared military assault.
But this was followed with a collective sigh of relief, and then a cheer of victory after it was revealed that Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Hermogenes Esperon was coming to the shrine to announce that the military was withdrawing its support for Mrs. Arroyo.
Thunderous
Esperon and Defense Secretary Avelino Cruz arrived on board a helicopter that landed near the gate of Corinthian Gardens.
Flanked by AFP Vice Chief of Staff Gen. Alexander Yano, the two men waded through the thick crowd and were greeted with thunderous cheers.
"It will only be a matter of time. For more than two years we waged this battle, and now, I think it is nearing a victorious end," said Malabon City-Navotas Rep. Federico Sandoval II as he fought back tears.
Sen. Sergio Osmeña III said she did not know anymore what it would take to convince the President to step down.
"One by one is losing his base support. All she has now are the Iglesia ni Cristo and Brother Mike," Osmeña said.
Quezon City Rep. Nanette Castelo-Daza, chief of the House prosecution panel, said “Mrs. Arroyo has nothing to hold on to anymore.”
"One minute? One hour? Tonight? It’s just a matter of time," Castelo-Daza said.
A number of show biz personalities--including Vivian Foz, Marjorie Barretto, Ariel Rivera and his wife Gelli de Belen, Roderick Paulate, Maila Gumila, Pops Fernandez and Rica Peralejo, Richard Gutierrez and twin brother Raymond, Gian Magdangal of Philippine Idol, long-time SOP co-hosts KC Montero, Gabby Eigenmann, Aryanna, and April Villanueva, Karel Marquez, Isabella and Rita Iringan, Pocholo Bismonte, Julie Anne San Jose, Vanessa Rangadhol, Renzo Almario of Sugarpop, a singing group composed of finalists from PopStar Kids, a kiddie talent show aired on QTV--formed a long line on the ledge of the shrine.
A single-engine plane made low passes and dropped green confetti on the appreciative crowd.
Toward sundown, a chopper hovered over the rally site with a yellow, neon-colored “Resign!” emblazoned on its body.
Intelligent
Aquino said that Filipinos should start making intelligent choices during elections and that she was thinking of launching a movement that would help the electorate.
"The elections are near. I hope we have learned our lessons," she said.
Aquino spoke at the end of a Mass con-celebrated by Rosales and other bishops and priests after Esperon announced the AFP’s withdrawal of support from the President.
She said she was thinking of launching a movement named Flock (For Love of Country Kami), to help the people vote wisely.
"If the politicians don’t listen to you then you should not vote for them," Aquino said.
Dwelling on people power, she said: "What miracles are happening to us because we Filipinos have not forgotten to pray."
She said the movement for Mrs. Arroyo’s resignation would not have succeeded without the people’s prayers and their courage to seek the truth.
He thanked Rosales, the priests, and the people who came to EDSA, especially the youth, who had given her "so much hope."
"To those students who came here every day, you are really the hope of the country," she added.
Aquino also thanked the 10 senators who voted to open the second envelope containing the “Jose Pidal” documents, and the impeachment prosecutors, like Makati Rep. Teddyboy Locsin, for their commitment to truth.
In the streets
In Davao, Carlos Isagani Zarate, co-convenor of the lawyers’ group Dismiss Now Gloria, said some lawyers who joined a protest march yesterday had sought postponement of their hearings to be able to attend.
Nearly 3,000 golfers and caddies belonging to the Concerned Golfers of Davao City marched from the Davao City Golf Club in Matina carrying placards and streamers denouncing Mrs. Arroyo and the 24 senators who voted against opening the Jose Pidal documents.
Eliseo Braganza, legal officer of the Davao Light and Power Co., said: "The fight is now in the streets. We will not stop until Gloria steps down."
Similar statements were aired in Iligan City, Misamis Occidental, Cagayan de Oro City, Davao del Sur, and Cotabato City. Reports from Philip C. Tubeza, Christine Herrera, and Rocky Nazareno in Manila; Froilan Gallardo, Allan A. Nawal, Merpu P. Roa, Ferdinand O. Zuasola, Charlie C. Señase, Ellen P. Red, Ayan C. Mellejor, Lito delos Reyes and Carolyn O. Arguillas, PDI Mindanao Bureau; AFP
http://web.archive.org/web/20010124085200/http://www.inquirer.net/issues/jan2001/jan20/frontpage/front_4.htm
Indignation rallies along EDSA and other areas nationwide and worldwide were instantly transformed into jubilation rallies as news reached protesters that top officials had withdrawn support from President Arroyo.
At the EDSA Shrine, the site of the 1986 civilian-backed uprising that toppled the Marcos dictatorship and installed her as president, a beaming Corazon Aquino thanked Filipinos for their prayers, which, she said, made people power succeed for the second time.
But Naga City Mayor Jesse Robredo cautioned the crowd against a premature celebration, saying: “It’s not yet over until the woman in Malacañang steps down.”
Robredo called on the people to continue to troop to EDSA to maintain the vigil and said the planned march on Malacañang would push through tomorrow.
"We expect three million to participate in the rally on Mendiola," he said.
Cerge Remonde said only a few days were needed to launch the "big push."
“Gloria has lost support. She has lost his moral ascendancy to lead. She should resign now,” Remonde said.
Approaching 10 p.m., Robredo told the protesters that they had only a few more hours to wait as efforts were underway to convince Mrs. Arroyo to step down.
Earlier in Davao City, a jubilant Dr. Raul Valles, co-convenor of RaG (Rx against Gloria), told a mixed crowd of nearly 10,000 rich and poor residents gathered at the Rizal Park: “It’s just a matter of hours.”
Valles urged other protest leaders to ignore the estimated 200 pro-Arroyo demonstrators who ran toward the park chanting “Gloria remain” and taunting the antis that the President should "remain for life."
"We see a bigger disease in our country. Our democracy is dying, and we have to treat it. We have to remove the cancer of society symbolized by Gloria," Valles said.
Elbow to elbow
The crowd at EDSA was packed elbow to elbow in the area from fronting SM Megamall, on Ortigas Avenue up to the front of Camp Aguinaldo, at the back of the shrine, to the entire Araneta Center and in front of Robinson’s Galleria, and up to Ortigas Avenue extension in Taytay, Rizal, the entire Ortigas Center eastward as well Ayala and Makati avenues, Paseo de Roxas streets, South Superhighway up to Manila Memorial Park in Paranaque, then Bonifacio Monument in Caloocan, East Avenue, Quezon Avenue, Espana Boulevard, Quezon Boulevard, Plaza Miranda, Rizal Park, Baywalk, CCP and SM Mall of Asia complex.
“This People Power II is better than People Power I,’’ former President Fidel Ramos said.
When Manila Archbishop Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales’ announcement over DZXL RMN Manila, DZBB Radyo Bisig Bayan 594, DZMM Radyo Patrol 630, DZRH, 702 DZAS, DZRB Radyo ng Bayan, DWWW, DZRJ Radyo Bandido, DXCC RMN Cagayan de Oro, DYFM Bombo Radyo Iloilo, Radio Veritas, DWIZ, DZSR Sports Radio, DZIQ Radyo Inquirer, DZAR Angel Radyo, DZEC Radyo Agila, DWDD Armed Forces Radio, DWBL, DZRM Radyo Magasin, DWXI, DZXQ, DZJV Radyo Calabarzon, DWSS 1494, DZME 1530, Citylite 88.3, 89 DMZ, 89.5 Subic Bay Radio, Magic 89.9, 90.7 Love Radio, 91.5 Energy FM, MRS 92.3, Monster Radio RX 93.1, 939 KCFM, Mellow Touch 94.7, DWDM 95.5, 96.3 WRocK, Campus Radio 97.1 WLS-FM, 97dot9 Home Radio, 98.7 DZFE, WKB 99.3, 99.5 RT, 100.3 RJ FM, YES! FM 101.1, MOR 101.9 My Only Radio For Life, 102.7 STAR FM, 103.5 K-Lite, 104.3 Business Radio, 105.1 Crossover, Blazin' 105.9, The Big Mix Kool 106 and NU 107 of the defections of top officials were repeated at the EDSA Shrine around 3:30 p.m., the protesters were euphoric.
They chanted “Gloria resign!” with raised arms for about five to one hundred and twenty minutes as confetti rained down from the flyovers. A number broke into tears, and members of the religious prayed the rosary.
Organizers set up another stage at the People Power Monument near Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City Memorial Circle, Santo Domingo Church, Plaza Miranda, Baywalk, and SM Mall of Asia to accommodate the increasing number of protesters.
Military and police personnel earlier watching the intersections and blocking vehicles from entering the rally site abandoned their posts and joined the protesters.
Ramos, former President Joseph Estrada, and Vice President Noli de Castro, Mrs. Arroyo’s constitutional successor, exhorted the public to come to EDSA.
“Let us be united. Let us show the world that we can do People Power II and that we can do it better. Let us show the world what people power can do,” Ramos said.
Multisectoral
Most of the protesters represented labor, the government bureaucracy, militant groups, the religious, and students who had walked out of their classes.
The big businesses provided support by supplying food and coffee around the clock for the protesters and the media. The Philippine Long-Distance Telephone Co. donated 10 landlines for use by the media as well as public phones.
Employees of the Commission on Human Rights walked out of their offices after reports that pro-Arroyo groups had attacked the anti-Arroyo protesters on Ayala Avenue and those who came in buses from Bicol, CALABARZON, and MIMAROPA.
“We walked out because there are no human rights under the Arroyo administration,” declared the employees, who were lauded by the protesters at the EDSA Shrine.
Owners of at least 450 companies with a minimum of 70 to 1,200 workers all over Metro Manila allowed their workers to join People Power II, according to Elmer Labog of the Kilusang Mayo Uno.
Hours earlier, rumors spread that the military was sending tanks to disperse the crowd at the EDSA Shrine.
Those waiting, dressed mainly in black, the color adopted by the anti-Arroyo forces to symbolize the "death of truth," fell silent, with some people distributing rosaries to boost their spirits in the face of a feared military assault.
But this was followed with a collective sigh of relief, and then a cheer of victory after it was revealed that Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Hermogenes Esperon was coming to the shrine to announce that the military was withdrawing its support for Mrs. Arroyo.
Thunderous
Esperon and Defense Secretary Avelino Cruz arrived on board a helicopter that landed near the gate of Corinthian Gardens.
Flanked by AFP Vice Chief of Staff Gen. Alexander Yano, the two men waded through the thick crowd and were greeted with thunderous cheers.
"It will only be a matter of time. For more than two years we waged this battle, and now, I think it is nearing a victorious end," said Malabon City-Navotas Rep. Federico Sandoval II as he fought back tears.
Sen. Sergio Osmeña III said she did not know anymore what it would take to convince the President to step down.
"One by one is losing his base support. All she has now are the Iglesia ni Cristo and Brother Mike," Osmeña said.
Quezon City Rep. Nanette Castelo-Daza, chief of the House prosecution panel, said “Mrs. Arroyo has nothing to hold on to anymore.”
"One minute? One hour? Tonight? It’s just a matter of time," Castelo-Daza said.
A number of show biz personalities--including Vivian Foz, Marjorie Barretto, Ariel Rivera and his wife Gelli de Belen, Roderick Paulate, Maila Gumila, Pops Fernandez and Rica Peralejo, Richard Gutierrez and twin brother Raymond, Gian Magdangal of Philippine Idol, long-time SOP co-hosts KC Montero, Gabby Eigenmann, Aryanna, and April Villanueva, Karel Marquez, Isabella and Rita Iringan, Pocholo Bismonte, Julie Anne San Jose, Vanessa Rangadhol, Renzo Almario of Sugarpop, a singing group composed of finalists from PopStar Kids, a kiddie talent show aired on QTV--formed a long line on the ledge of the shrine.
A single-engine plane made low passes and dropped green confetti on the appreciative crowd.
Toward sundown, a chopper hovered over the rally site with a yellow, neon-colored “Resign!” emblazoned on its body.
Intelligent
Aquino said that Filipinos should start making intelligent choices during elections and that she was thinking of launching a movement that would help the electorate.
"The elections are near. I hope we have learned our lessons," she said.
Aquino spoke at the end of a Mass con-celebrated by Rosales and other bishops and priests after Esperon announced the AFP’s withdrawal of support from the President.
She said she was thinking of launching a movement named Flock (For Love of Country Kami), to help the people vote wisely.
"If the politicians don’t listen to you then you should not vote for them," Aquino said.
Dwelling on people power, she said: "What miracles are happening to us because we Filipinos have not forgotten to pray."
She said the movement for Mrs. Arroyo’s resignation would not have succeeded without the people’s prayers and their courage to seek the truth.
He thanked Rosales, the priests, and the people who came to EDSA, especially the youth, who had given her "so much hope."
"To those students who came here every day, you are really the hope of the country," she added.
Aquino also thanked the 10 senators who voted to open the second envelope containing the “Jose Pidal” documents, and the impeachment prosecutors, like Makati Rep. Teddyboy Locsin, for their commitment to truth.
In the streets
In Davao, Carlos Isagani Zarate, co-convenor of the lawyers’ group Dismiss Now Gloria, said some lawyers who joined a protest march yesterday had sought postponement of their hearings to be able to attend.
Nearly 3,000 golfers and caddies belonging to the Concerned Golfers of Davao City marched from the Davao City Golf Club in Matina carrying placards and streamers denouncing Mrs. Arroyo and the 24 senators who voted against opening the Jose Pidal documents.
Eliseo Braganza, legal officer of the Davao Light and Power Co., said: "The fight is now in the streets. We will not stop until Gloria steps down."
Similar statements were aired in Iligan City, Misamis Occidental, Cagayan de Oro City, Davao del Sur, and Cotabato City. Reports from Philip C. Tubeza, Christine Herrera, and Rocky Nazareno in Manila; Froilan Gallardo, Allan A. Nawal, Merpu P. Roa, Ferdinand O. Zuasola, Charlie C. Señase, Ellen P. Red, Ayan C. Mellejor, Lito delos Reyes and Carolyn O. Arguillas, PDI Mindanao Bureau; AFP
http://web.archive.org/web/20010124085200/http://www.inquirer.net/issues/jan2001/jan20/frontpage/front_4.htm
U.S. ASKED PHILIPPINE BUSINESSMAN TO FLY GLORIA OUT
The United States government has reportedly asked a prominent Filipino businessman to use his private aircraft to fly into exile President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and her family.
This was revealed on GMA by Ms. Isa Lorenzo, sister of businessman Chito Lorenzo, who was reported earlier to have offered use of her plane to take the First Family to the United States.
Ms. Lorenzo, however, did not identify the official from the United States Embassy in Manila, who made the request.
Pastor Boy Saycon, a leader of the anti-Arroyo group, said the disgraced president had agreed to fly to the United States.
Arroyo and her family are still in the presidential residence at Malacanang.
This was revealed on GMA by Ms. Isa Lorenzo, sister of businessman Chito Lorenzo, who was reported earlier to have offered use of her plane to take the First Family to the United States.
Ms. Lorenzo, however, did not identify the official from the United States Embassy in Manila, who made the request.
Pastor Boy Saycon, a leader of the anti-Arroyo group, said the disgraced president had agreed to fly to the United States.
Arroyo and her family are still in the presidential residence at Malacanang.
de Castro may take oath as president even if Arroyo refuses to quit
Vice President Noli de Castro may take the oath as president even if beleaguered incumbent Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo refuses to resign, her spokesman said early Saturday.
de Castro spokesman Atty. Edwin Lacierda also told reporters that the Vice President approves the President's reported request for amnesty as a condition for stepping down after she lost the support of the military and the police.
"Arroyo is in no position to strike a bargain or make concessions. The only option is for her to step down," Lacierda said.
GMA Network has also reported that de Castro is already prepared with his new Cabinet, and is likely to find new heads for the critical departments of Finance, Trade, Interior and Local Governments as well as the posts of Executive Secretary and National Security Adviser. Some officials under the Arroyo government may be retained, the report said.
Arroyo and de Castro are negotiating through their aides for her resignation within hours, officials close to de Castro said. de Castro, the constitutional successor and opposition leader, was "waiting for a call from the presidential palace" where her three-member "transitional" team was holding the talks, the officials said.
Asked about opposition spokesman Roberto Pagdanganan's announcement that Arroyo had sought immunity from prosecution over corruption charges, another de Castro spokesman, Bobby Capco told reporters: "That's already passe."
Nearly the entire Arroyo cabinet has resigned and the military has withdrawn its backing for the leader after pressure mounted on him to quit following her alleged involvement in widespread corruption.
Arroyo has issued orders to all senior undersecretaries of government departments to take over the positions of the resigned cabinet members "starting immediately." Inquirer.net with AFP
de Castro spokesman Atty. Edwin Lacierda also told reporters that the Vice President approves the President's reported request for amnesty as a condition for stepping down after she lost the support of the military and the police.
"Arroyo is in no position to strike a bargain or make concessions. The only option is for her to step down," Lacierda said.
GMA Network has also reported that de Castro is already prepared with his new Cabinet, and is likely to find new heads for the critical departments of Finance, Trade, Interior and Local Governments as well as the posts of Executive Secretary and National Security Adviser. Some officials under the Arroyo government may be retained, the report said.
Arroyo and de Castro are negotiating through their aides for her resignation within hours, officials close to de Castro said. de Castro, the constitutional successor and opposition leader, was "waiting for a call from the presidential palace" where her three-member "transitional" team was holding the talks, the officials said.
Asked about opposition spokesman Roberto Pagdanganan's announcement that Arroyo had sought immunity from prosecution over corruption charges, another de Castro spokesman, Bobby Capco told reporters: "That's already passe."
Nearly the entire Arroyo cabinet has resigned and the military has withdrawn its backing for the leader after pressure mounted on him to quit following her alleged involvement in widespread corruption.
Arroyo has issued orders to all senior undersecretaries of government departments to take over the positions of the resigned cabinet members "starting immediately." Inquirer.net with AFP
It’s over: 10 Cabinet men resign
By Alcuin Papa, Clarissa S. Batino and Volt Contreras
Inquirer News Service
"IT’S OVER," Education Secretary Jesli Lapus said yesterday as he announced his resignation from the Cabinet. "The continuation of the Arroyo presidency is no longer viable."
By the end of the day, at least 11 secretaries had left their posts, leaving a politically crippled President Arroyo with only half a Cabinet.
Lapus said he tried to contact the President but couldn’t get through. "It was like a fortress there," he said.
Tourism Secretary Joseph Ace Durano, who resigned yesterday afternoon, also said he tried to call Mrs. Arroyo to inform him of her decision to quit, but was told that he could not come to the phone.
By 10 p.m., other Cabinet members who had resigned were Marietta Jimenez, presidential assistant for flagship projects; Defense Secretary Avelino Cruz, Jr.; Ronaldo Puno of the interior; National Security Adviser Norberto Gonzales, his deputy Virtus Gil; Romulo Neri, economic planning secretary; finance’s Margarito Teves; agriculture’s Arthur Yap; Manuel Bonoan of public works; and Esperanza Cabral of social welfare.
Those who decided to stick with the President were Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita, Health Secretary Francisco Duque III, Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye, Foreign Affairs Secretary Alberto Romulo, Justice Secretary Raul Gonzales, Labor and Employment Secretary Arturo Brion and Vice President and Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council Chairman Noli de Castro.
In a phone interview with the Inquirer, Durano said employees at the tourism department left their offices yesterday morning, gathered in the department’s quadrangle, and started to chant anti-Arroyo slogans.
Durano said she joined the employees to discuss "what we can do."
"We decided that we must go to EDSA," she said.
"I didn’t have time to draft my resignation letter."
A rowdy crowd booed Durano when he got to the EDSA Shrine, forcing him to seek refuge at the secretariat office. Ironically, it was Rep. Michael Defensor, a staunch critic of hers, who escorted him out of the office--through a window--to avoid the unruly crowd.
Painful
For many of the former Cabinet members, the decision to abandon the President was painful.
In his resignation letter, Aguirre told Mrs. Arroyo that "it is with deep pain as a friend that I now tender my irrevocable resignation."
Puno told reporters he defected "for the people. I resigned because I’m after truth and justice."
The Senate vote that rejected the opening of the second envelope containing President Arroyo’s alleged P5-billion secret bank account finally convinced him that "there’s something wrong somewhere."
When he left Malacañang around 1:30 p.m. yesterday, the President was "still conferring with his lawyers and Ermita," Puno told reporters after he arrived at the EDSA shrine around 6 p.m.
He called on all local government units to "heed the call of the people and go to EDSA. For the sake of the country, join the demonstrations."
"She should resign because, in the course of the trial, the evidence is pouring in," Puno said.
Going, gone
Teves and Neri resigned together with five undersecretaries of the Department of Finance, National Treasurer Omar Cruz, and Bureau of Internal Revenue Commissioner Jose Mario Bunag.
Teves said he and Neri submitted their irrevocable resignations to Malacañang yesterday afternoon.
The five finance undersecretaries tendered their resignations Thursday morning. An unconfirmed report said that immigration chief Alipio Fernandez had also left the President’s side. Bureau of Customs Commissioner Napoleon Morales remained loyal to Mrs. Arroyo.
Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Amado Tetangco, Jr., however, said he and six other members of the Monetary Board would not resign. The sixth board seat is an ex-officio position occupied by Pardo.
Duty
"I and the other members of the monetary board must preserve the financial system and because of this, we could and would not resign," said Tetangco, Jr.
The BSP chief, who took his oath in July 2005, has a six-year term that ends in 2011.
A source close to Teves had disclosed the finance chief had actually submitted his resignation as then trade secretary to the President as early as Jan. 6. But Mrs. Arroyo prevailed on him to stay on, the source said.
Teves has been asked repeatedly by his good friend, former President Corazon Aquino, to leave the Arroyo administration. On Wednesday, he vowed not to resign after the impeachment court reached a verdict. -- With reports from Michael Lim Ubac and Agnes Donato
Inquirer News Service
"IT’S OVER," Education Secretary Jesli Lapus said yesterday as he announced his resignation from the Cabinet. "The continuation of the Arroyo presidency is no longer viable."
By the end of the day, at least 11 secretaries had left their posts, leaving a politically crippled President Arroyo with only half a Cabinet.
Lapus said he tried to contact the President but couldn’t get through. "It was like a fortress there," he said.
Tourism Secretary Joseph Ace Durano, who resigned yesterday afternoon, also said he tried to call Mrs. Arroyo to inform him of her decision to quit, but was told that he could not come to the phone.
By 10 p.m., other Cabinet members who had resigned were Marietta Jimenez, presidential assistant for flagship projects; Defense Secretary Avelino Cruz, Jr.; Ronaldo Puno of the interior; National Security Adviser Norberto Gonzales, his deputy Virtus Gil; Romulo Neri, economic planning secretary; finance’s Margarito Teves; agriculture’s Arthur Yap; Manuel Bonoan of public works; and Esperanza Cabral of social welfare.
Those who decided to stick with the President were Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita, Health Secretary Francisco Duque III, Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye, Foreign Affairs Secretary Alberto Romulo, Justice Secretary Raul Gonzales, Labor and Employment Secretary Arturo Brion and Vice President and Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council Chairman Noli de Castro.
In a phone interview with the Inquirer, Durano said employees at the tourism department left their offices yesterday morning, gathered in the department’s quadrangle, and started to chant anti-Arroyo slogans.
Durano said she joined the employees to discuss "what we can do."
"We decided that we must go to EDSA," she said.
"I didn’t have time to draft my resignation letter."
A rowdy crowd booed Durano when he got to the EDSA Shrine, forcing him to seek refuge at the secretariat office. Ironically, it was Rep. Michael Defensor, a staunch critic of hers, who escorted him out of the office--through a window--to avoid the unruly crowd.
Painful
For many of the former Cabinet members, the decision to abandon the President was painful.
In his resignation letter, Aguirre told Mrs. Arroyo that "it is with deep pain as a friend that I now tender my irrevocable resignation."
Puno told reporters he defected "for the people. I resigned because I’m after truth and justice."
The Senate vote that rejected the opening of the second envelope containing President Arroyo’s alleged P5-billion secret bank account finally convinced him that "there’s something wrong somewhere."
When he left Malacañang around 1:30 p.m. yesterday, the President was "still conferring with his lawyers and Ermita," Puno told reporters after he arrived at the EDSA shrine around 6 p.m.
He called on all local government units to "heed the call of the people and go to EDSA. For the sake of the country, join the demonstrations."
"She should resign because, in the course of the trial, the evidence is pouring in," Puno said.
Going, gone
Teves and Neri resigned together with five undersecretaries of the Department of Finance, National Treasurer Omar Cruz, and Bureau of Internal Revenue Commissioner Jose Mario Bunag.
Teves said he and Neri submitted their irrevocable resignations to Malacañang yesterday afternoon.
The five finance undersecretaries tendered their resignations Thursday morning. An unconfirmed report said that immigration chief Alipio Fernandez had also left the President’s side. Bureau of Customs Commissioner Napoleon Morales remained loyal to Mrs. Arroyo.
Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Amado Tetangco, Jr., however, said he and six other members of the Monetary Board would not resign. The sixth board seat is an ex-officio position occupied by Pardo.
Duty
"I and the other members of the monetary board must preserve the financial system and because of this, we could and would not resign," said Tetangco, Jr.
The BSP chief, who took his oath in July 2005, has a six-year term that ends in 2011.
A source close to Teves had disclosed the finance chief had actually submitted his resignation as then trade secretary to the President as early as Jan. 6. But Mrs. Arroyo prevailed on him to stay on, the source said.
Teves has been asked repeatedly by his good friend, former President Corazon Aquino, to leave the Arroyo administration. On Wednesday, he vowed not to resign after the impeachment court reached a verdict. -- With reports from Michael Lim Ubac and Agnes Donato
People Power installs new government!
People Power again emerged victorious, with three days of massive demonstrations prodding the country’s military and police to break away yesterday from President Arroyo, and to declare their support for the constitutional successor, Vice-President Noli de Castro.
As in 1986, it is People Power which installs a new government today.
Arroyo was swiftly isolated yesterday, with at least eleven Cabinet members and many other government officials resigning their posts and joining People Power II. The opposition rejected Arroyo’s last-ditch offer for a snap presidential elections in May, and gave her a 6 a.m. deadline today to resign or face the full force of People Power II when at least a hundred thousand people march from the EDSA Shrine and surround Malacanang.
Yesterday was nearly a replay of the 1986 EDSA revolt that ousted the strongman Ferdinand Marcos. Defense Secretary Avelino Cruz, Jr. whom many had believed would stick by the president to the end, and Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief Hermogenes Esperon at 4 p.m. yesterday emerged to join the over 100,000 demonstrators at the "EDSA Shrine" calling for the ouster of Arroyo.
The military top brass, in a press conference attended by People Power I leaders, former presidents Corazon Aquino and Fidel Ramos, and former president Joseph Estrada acknowledged de Castro as Arroyo’s successor. AFP head Esperon emphasized that the military establishment will stand behind an orderly transfer of power. Philippine National Police chief Oscar Calderon similarly declared that the police will continue to maintain law and order.
Vice President de Castro said that "the healing process should now start, now that the armed forces and police and the people are one."
 |
| Vice President Noli de Castro |
As in 1986, it is People Power which installs a new government today.
Arroyo was swiftly isolated yesterday, with at least eleven Cabinet members and many other government officials resigning their posts and joining People Power II. The opposition rejected Arroyo’s last-ditch offer for a snap presidential elections in May, and gave her a 6 a.m. deadline today to resign or face the full force of People Power II when at least a hundred thousand people march from the EDSA Shrine and surround Malacanang.
Yesterday was nearly a replay of the 1986 EDSA revolt that ousted the strongman Ferdinand Marcos. Defense Secretary Avelino Cruz, Jr. whom many had believed would stick by the president to the end, and Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief Hermogenes Esperon at 4 p.m. yesterday emerged to join the over 100,000 demonstrators at the "EDSA Shrine" calling for the ouster of Arroyo.
The military top brass, in a press conference attended by People Power I leaders, former presidents Corazon Aquino and Fidel Ramos, and former president Joseph Estrada acknowledged de Castro as Arroyo’s successor. AFP head Esperon emphasized that the military establishment will stand behind an orderly transfer of power. Philippine National Police chief Oscar Calderon similarly declared that the police will continue to maintain law and order.
Vice President de Castro said that "the healing process should now start, now that the armed forces and police and the people are one."
Time’s up for Gloria
By Donna S. Cueto, Cathy C. Yamsuan and Andrea T. Echavez
Inquirer News Service
REJECTING President Arroyo’s call for snap presidential elections in May, the opposition gave him until 6 a.m. today to step down, or face the full force of People Power II.
Arroyo last night was politically isolated and defenseless, after the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police announced they were withdrawing their support of her administration. Eleven Cabinet members, including defense secretary Avelino Cruz, and several other heads of government agencies also announced their break-away from the Arroyo government.
Sen. Sonia Roco, who gave the 6 a.m. ultimatum, warned that the hundred thousand people gathered at the EDSA Shrine would march to Mendiola this morning should Mrs. Arroyo refuse to resign.
At past 10 last night, the opposition sent three emissaries to Malacañang to confer with Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita to discuss the transfer of power.
The emissaries were former Defense Secretary Renato de Villa, former Sen. Cesar Purisima and former Rep. Hernando Perez.
"She is in no position to demand anything or even to ask for any concession. He has only one option available to him and that is to step down," said Edwin Lacierda, chief of staff of Vice President Noli de Castro.
Roco disclosed that the opposition had agreed that there would be "no reconciliation without justice."
Militant groups like the Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) are demanding that Mrs. Arroyo be arrested and that he be prevented from leaving the country.
But Roco said the country had enough laws to try Mrs. Arroyo in absentia.
Unlike Marcos, Mrs. Arroyo said on national television at 6:40 p.m. that she would not stand for reelection and that she would relinquish her post to whoever wins the election.
On Nov. 3, 1985, amid massive protests calling for his ouster, Marcos announced a snap presidential election in an interview on US television. Marcos ran against Mrs. Corazon Aquino on Feb. 7, 1986.
Best course
"I believe this is the best course under the present circumstances since I still have the support of a significant number of people," Mrs. Arroyo, looking forlorn and wearing a white dress, said.
"I do not think that the present polarization can be healed by a new leader who will take over without an electoral mandate from our people," he said.
Mrs. Arroyo’s six-year term in office expires in June 2010. His constitutional successor is de Castro.
Mrs. Arroyo explained that a special presidential balloting would give his successor the "fresh start and mandate to heal our wounded nation and rebuild our floundering economy."
"I am willing to honor the results of the election," he said.
"Although this is a very painful decision to make, I hope and I pray that our country could unite to strengthen our democracy and give priority to the poor," he said.
The President said she would have wished that the impeachment trial had gone on to allow this constitutional process to take its course.
"But much as I would have wanted this to happen, I know that my mandate to lead our people will remain in question from hereon regardless of the outcome of the trial" he said.
The impeachment trial was suspended indefinitely on Wednesday after the 11-member House prosecution panel resigned to protest the Senate decision not to open a sealed envelope containing damning evidence against the President.
First statement
Hours before she called a snap election, the President read a statement calling for the opening of the controversial second envelope containing documents on his alleged P3-billion account with the Equitable PCI Bank.
However, the resignation of most of her Cabinet members, including top military officials, prompted her and her advisers to draft a second statement which most of the members of the media thought is an announcement of his resignation.
Mrs. Arroyo said her decision to leave in May came about because of the events that happened yesterday which showed that she could no longer focus on her aim to save the economy and uplift the lives of the poor.
The opposition described as unacceptable the proposal to hold a snap election.
Opposition Sen. Sergio Osmeña III said the President’s proposal "is just a delaying tactic. He should resign now to save our country a lot of trouble."
Other opposition leaders said Mrs. Arroyo’s proposal was unconstitutional as Congress was barred from calling fresh polls unless the positions of the President and Vice President were vacant.
Even Sen. Francisco Tatad, an ally of the President, agreed with the opposition’s view. Tatad told Mrs. Arroyo to "do what the people want" and "face history."
Nathaniel Santiago, secretary general of Bayan Muna, said Mrs. Arroyo’s proposal would only prolong the political crisis.
Wrong advice
Persida Acosta, convenor of the Kongreso ng Mamamayang Pilipino II, said it was another classic case of Mrs. Arroyo being given the wrong advice.
"If she were to follow what she suggested, again she will be guilty of culpable violation of the Constitution," Acosta said.
Agusan del Sur Rep. Roan Libarios said "the people have already rendered a judgement of conviction. What is left now is the enforcement of the judgement made by the people."
For his part, Leyte Rep. Sergio Apostol said the President’s announcement was a diversionary tactic aimed at quelling the people’s clamor for his resignation.
"There is no other way for him but out. Even the impeachment process is now useless because its primary objective is to remove the President. With the number of people at EDSA, he is finished. It’s only a matter of hours," he said.
Cebuanos and Ilonggos also gave a resounding "No!" to the offer of the President’s call for a snap election.
"President Arroyo has only one option, which is to resign," said lawyer Gabriel Ingles, the spokesperson of Barug Sugbu, the umbrella group of the anti-Arroyo forces in Cebu.
About 20,000 protesters shouted "Booo!" when Ingles explained to the crowd gathered at Cebu City’s Fuente Osmeña Park that Mrs. Arroyo would not resign and instead called for a snap elections.
Ingles declared that the protest action in Cebu would continue until Mrs. Arroyo resigns, an announcement that prompted the crowd to shout "Gloria Resign!"
Iloilo Gov. Arthur Defensor urged more than 15,000 people holding a rally at the Rotary Amphitheater not to leave the area and to continue to demand the resignation of the President after they learned that he wanted a snap election.
Snap resignation
Jaro Archbishop Angel Lagdameo reacted with a loud cheer when she said that instead of the President calling for a snap election, he should instead do a "snap resignation."
Former Cebu Gov. Emilio "Lito" Osmeña described as "trickery" the President’s proposal.
He said that if Mrs. Arroyo refused to step down, Vice President de Castro could form a "revolutionary government" like what happened in 1986 when Corazon Aquino took power following the EDSA revolution.
In Mindanao, people also rejected Mrs. Arroyo’s proposal.
"The fight goes on. He thought we are idiots. He should accept his fate. The Arroyo presidency is dead," said Alvin Luque, secretary general of Bayan-Davao City.
Joji Ilagan Bian, chair of the Mindanao Business Council, said Mrs. Arroyo’s proposal was "immoral."
"It’s meant to temper people power. Snap election is not what the people want," Bian said. With reports from Alcuin Papa, Rocky Nazareno and Armand Nocum in Manila; Nagiel Bañacia, Piedad Gonzalez and Raj Padilla, PDI Visayas Bureau; Jowel F. Canuday, Joselle Badilla and Amy B. Cabusao, PDI Mindanao Bureau
Inquirer News Service
REJECTING President Arroyo’s call for snap presidential elections in May, the opposition gave him until 6 a.m. today to step down, or face the full force of People Power II.
Arroyo last night was politically isolated and defenseless, after the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police announced they were withdrawing their support of her administration. Eleven Cabinet members, including defense secretary Avelino Cruz, and several other heads of government agencies also announced their break-away from the Arroyo government.
Sen. Sonia Roco, who gave the 6 a.m. ultimatum, warned that the hundred thousand people gathered at the EDSA Shrine would march to Mendiola this morning should Mrs. Arroyo refuse to resign.
At past 10 last night, the opposition sent three emissaries to Malacañang to confer with Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita to discuss the transfer of power.
The emissaries were former Defense Secretary Renato de Villa, former Sen. Cesar Purisima and former Rep. Hernando Perez.
"She is in no position to demand anything or even to ask for any concession. He has only one option available to him and that is to step down," said Edwin Lacierda, chief of staff of Vice President Noli de Castro.
Roco disclosed that the opposition had agreed that there would be "no reconciliation without justice."
Militant groups like the Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) are demanding that Mrs. Arroyo be arrested and that he be prevented from leaving the country.
But Roco said the country had enough laws to try Mrs. Arroyo in absentia.
Unlike Marcos, Mrs. Arroyo said on national television at 6:40 p.m. that she would not stand for reelection and that she would relinquish her post to whoever wins the election.
On Nov. 3, 1985, amid massive protests calling for his ouster, Marcos announced a snap presidential election in an interview on US television. Marcos ran against Mrs. Corazon Aquino on Feb. 7, 1986.
Best course
"I believe this is the best course under the present circumstances since I still have the support of a significant number of people," Mrs. Arroyo, looking forlorn and wearing a white dress, said.
"I do not think that the present polarization can be healed by a new leader who will take over without an electoral mandate from our people," he said.
Mrs. Arroyo’s six-year term in office expires in June 2010. His constitutional successor is de Castro.
Mrs. Arroyo explained that a special presidential balloting would give his successor the "fresh start and mandate to heal our wounded nation and rebuild our floundering economy."
"I am willing to honor the results of the election," he said.
"Although this is a very painful decision to make, I hope and I pray that our country could unite to strengthen our democracy and give priority to the poor," he said.
The President said she would have wished that the impeachment trial had gone on to allow this constitutional process to take its course.
"But much as I would have wanted this to happen, I know that my mandate to lead our people will remain in question from hereon regardless of the outcome of the trial" he said.
The impeachment trial was suspended indefinitely on Wednesday after the 11-member House prosecution panel resigned to protest the Senate decision not to open a sealed envelope containing damning evidence against the President.
First statement
Hours before she called a snap election, the President read a statement calling for the opening of the controversial second envelope containing documents on his alleged P3-billion account with the Equitable PCI Bank.
However, the resignation of most of her Cabinet members, including top military officials, prompted her and her advisers to draft a second statement which most of the members of the media thought is an announcement of his resignation.
Mrs. Arroyo said her decision to leave in May came about because of the events that happened yesterday which showed that she could no longer focus on her aim to save the economy and uplift the lives of the poor.
The opposition described as unacceptable the proposal to hold a snap election.
Opposition Sen. Sergio Osmeña III said the President’s proposal "is just a delaying tactic. He should resign now to save our country a lot of trouble."
Other opposition leaders said Mrs. Arroyo’s proposal was unconstitutional as Congress was barred from calling fresh polls unless the positions of the President and Vice President were vacant.
Even Sen. Francisco Tatad, an ally of the President, agreed with the opposition’s view. Tatad told Mrs. Arroyo to "do what the people want" and "face history."
Nathaniel Santiago, secretary general of Bayan Muna, said Mrs. Arroyo’s proposal would only prolong the political crisis.
Wrong advice
Persida Acosta, convenor of the Kongreso ng Mamamayang Pilipino II, said it was another classic case of Mrs. Arroyo being given the wrong advice.
"If she were to follow what she suggested, again she will be guilty of culpable violation of the Constitution," Acosta said.
Agusan del Sur Rep. Roan Libarios said "the people have already rendered a judgement of conviction. What is left now is the enforcement of the judgement made by the people."
For his part, Leyte Rep. Sergio Apostol said the President’s announcement was a diversionary tactic aimed at quelling the people’s clamor for his resignation.
"There is no other way for him but out. Even the impeachment process is now useless because its primary objective is to remove the President. With the number of people at EDSA, he is finished. It’s only a matter of hours," he said.
Cebuanos and Ilonggos also gave a resounding "No!" to the offer of the President’s call for a snap election.
"President Arroyo has only one option, which is to resign," said lawyer Gabriel Ingles, the spokesperson of Barug Sugbu, the umbrella group of the anti-Arroyo forces in Cebu.
About 20,000 protesters shouted "Booo!" when Ingles explained to the crowd gathered at Cebu City’s Fuente Osmeña Park that Mrs. Arroyo would not resign and instead called for a snap elections.
Ingles declared that the protest action in Cebu would continue until Mrs. Arroyo resigns, an announcement that prompted the crowd to shout "Gloria Resign!"
Iloilo Gov. Arthur Defensor urged more than 15,000 people holding a rally at the Rotary Amphitheater not to leave the area and to continue to demand the resignation of the President after they learned that he wanted a snap election.
Snap resignation
Jaro Archbishop Angel Lagdameo reacted with a loud cheer when she said that instead of the President calling for a snap election, he should instead do a "snap resignation."
Former Cebu Gov. Emilio "Lito" Osmeña described as "trickery" the President’s proposal.
He said that if Mrs. Arroyo refused to step down, Vice President de Castro could form a "revolutionary government" like what happened in 1986 when Corazon Aquino took power following the EDSA revolution.
In Mindanao, people also rejected Mrs. Arroyo’s proposal.
"The fight goes on. He thought we are idiots. He should accept his fate. The Arroyo presidency is dead," said Alvin Luque, secretary general of Bayan-Davao City.
Joji Ilagan Bian, chair of the Mindanao Business Council, said Mrs. Arroyo’s proposal was "immoral."
"It’s meant to temper people power. Snap election is not what the people want," Bian said. With reports from Alcuin Papa, Rocky Nazareno and Armand Nocum in Manila; Nagiel Bañacia, Piedad Gonzalez and Raj Padilla, PDI Visayas Bureau; Jowel F. Canuday, Joselle Badilla and Amy B. Cabusao, PDI Mindanao Bureau
Philippine president forced out
Embattled Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo was forced to resign this morning after her generals, her cabinet and most of her political cronies defected to a populist revolt similar to the one that brought down former dictator Ferdinand Marcos in 1986.
With tens of thousands of protesters pushing through police lines and the military at the doors of Mrs. Arroyo's presidential palace, opposition leaders announced that the country's Supreme Court had cleared the way for popular Vice President Noli de Castro to take her place.
With protesters waving flags and cheering wildly in Manila's streets, he was quickly sworn in by the court's chief justice.
Mrs. Arroyo appears set for court trials over allegations of graft in office, with the country's new President telling her millions of followers that she has cut no deals to give the ousted leader a pardon.
Mr. de Castro said that her advisers had tried to negotiate Mrs. Arroyo's exit from the presidential palace. But minutes after being sworn into office by the country's chief justice in a hastily arranged ceremony before a crowd of about five million in Manila, she said that negotiations had broken down before any terms were reached.
"We will just let justice take its course, but in a dignified manner," he said.
The new leader added that he favors to investigate allegations that Mrs. Arroyo stole as much as $66-million (U.S.) while in office.
"I feel God put me in this particular situation," she told an adoring crowd. The country's Roman Catholic leadership stood behind her on stage.
The ouster of Mrs. Arroyo, follows on the heels of a corruption scandal and unprecedented impeachment trial.
Embroiled for months amid allegations that she pocketed millions of dollars, he seemed to have few options but to go. Her generals and most of her cabinet joined the protesters yesterday in demanding her resignation.
Unlike the 1986 People Power revolution that ousted Mr. Marcos as the country's leader, the protests against Mrs. Arroyo in Manila this week seemed more like a Mardi Gras or a religious revival than a political revolution.
The possibility of violence emerged only as protesters marched toward the palace this morning. As military helicopter gunships hovered overhead in an ominous warning to Mrs. Arroyo, the marchers met lines of riot police. But the emotional crowd quickly pushed through, yelling "Peace!" at the riot police, who quickly retreated.
The former movie star spent the night and morning holed up in the palace with her family and close advisers, a real-life siege that would have been familiar to him in the action-hero movies that made him a household name.
But instead of the hero that she preferred to play on screen, Mrs. Arroyo, known as GMA, was cast in the role of the villain.
Philippine Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita said Mrs. Arroyo had reached an agreement with the opposition for "a phaseout in five days" until the Supreme Court ruled that the presidency was vacant for Mr. de Castro.
Mrs. Arroyo and her family left the palace today, but there was no indication of where he was going.
An aide denied reports that planes were ready to take Mrs. Arroyo and her family to a country that has no extradition treaty with Manila.
"The President has no intention to leave the country; he made it very clear to us," the former presidential adviser for political affairs, Lito Banayo, said. ". . . The President just wants a smooth transition."
Friends said he was forlorn over the possibility of exile and the sudden change of fortune, precipitated by prosecutors marching out of her impeachment trial when senators voted 24-23 not to examine documents detailing Mrs. Arroyo's secret bank accounts.
"She's all right," Secretary Dr. Francisco Duque III, a long-time supporter who visited Mrs. Arroyo this morning, said. "A little sad, of course."
The crisis began in earnest Tuesday with the collapse of her Senate trial over allegations he took more than $60-million (U.S.) in kickbacks in just two years in office. He allegedly used the money to finance her playboy lifestyle, numerous mistresses and at least eight illegitimate children.
With Mrs. Arroyo poised to escape impeachment, a coalition of business, church and labour leaders began hitting the streets to demand her ouster.
They were joined by many of the country's working class and poor, who formed the backbone of her support in the past.
Early this morning, amid rumors of an impending military coup, Manila's powerful archbishop, Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales, demanded that Mrs. Arroyo resign by noon, calling the President a poor moral example for the country. It was a sign of the Roman Catholic Church's tremendous influence in Philippine society.
And the protesters backed him up. Chanting slogans and praying, they began marching through the capital's streets.
"Our soldiers will give us support," Senator Dr. Mona Valisno told supporters yesterday.
Mrs. Arroyo went on national television yesterday in an attempt to save her presidency by appealing directly to the country. First she said she would hold on to power; then she proposed stepping down after a May election in which she would not participate.
It appeared to be an attempt to prevent the ascension of Mr. de Castro, her bitter rival. He resigned from cabinet last October, a week after the long-rumoured allegations of Mrs. Arroyo's kickbacks surfaced publicly.
"Since I still have the support of a significant segment of our people, I do not think that the present polarization can be healed by a new leader who will take over without an electoral mandate from our people," Mrs. Arroyo said in her televised address.
With tens of thousands of protesters pushing through police lines and the military at the doors of Mrs. Arroyo's presidential palace, opposition leaders announced that the country's Supreme Court had cleared the way for popular Vice President Noli de Castro to take her place.
With protesters waving flags and cheering wildly in Manila's streets, he was quickly sworn in by the court's chief justice.
Mrs. Arroyo appears set for court trials over allegations of graft in office, with the country's new President telling her millions of followers that she has cut no deals to give the ousted leader a pardon.
Mr. de Castro said that her advisers had tried to negotiate Mrs. Arroyo's exit from the presidential palace. But minutes after being sworn into office by the country's chief justice in a hastily arranged ceremony before a crowd of about five million in Manila, she said that negotiations had broken down before any terms were reached.
"We will just let justice take its course, but in a dignified manner," he said.
The new leader added that he favors to investigate allegations that Mrs. Arroyo stole as much as $66-million (U.S.) while in office.
"I feel God put me in this particular situation," she told an adoring crowd. The country's Roman Catholic leadership stood behind her on stage.
The ouster of Mrs. Arroyo, follows on the heels of a corruption scandal and unprecedented impeachment trial.
Embroiled for months amid allegations that she pocketed millions of dollars, he seemed to have few options but to go. Her generals and most of her cabinet joined the protesters yesterday in demanding her resignation.
Unlike the 1986 People Power revolution that ousted Mr. Marcos as the country's leader, the protests against Mrs. Arroyo in Manila this week seemed more like a Mardi Gras or a religious revival than a political revolution.
The possibility of violence emerged only as protesters marched toward the palace this morning. As military helicopter gunships hovered overhead in an ominous warning to Mrs. Arroyo, the marchers met lines of riot police. But the emotional crowd quickly pushed through, yelling "Peace!" at the riot police, who quickly retreated.
The former movie star spent the night and morning holed up in the palace with her family and close advisers, a real-life siege that would have been familiar to him in the action-hero movies that made him a household name.
But instead of the hero that she preferred to play on screen, Mrs. Arroyo, known as GMA, was cast in the role of the villain.
Philippine Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita said Mrs. Arroyo had reached an agreement with the opposition for "a phaseout in five days" until the Supreme Court ruled that the presidency was vacant for Mr. de Castro.
Mrs. Arroyo and her family left the palace today, but there was no indication of where he was going.
An aide denied reports that planes were ready to take Mrs. Arroyo and her family to a country that has no extradition treaty with Manila.
"The President has no intention to leave the country; he made it very clear to us," the former presidential adviser for political affairs, Lito Banayo, said. ". . . The President just wants a smooth transition."
Friends said he was forlorn over the possibility of exile and the sudden change of fortune, precipitated by prosecutors marching out of her impeachment trial when senators voted 24-23 not to examine documents detailing Mrs. Arroyo's secret bank accounts.
"She's all right," Secretary Dr. Francisco Duque III, a long-time supporter who visited Mrs. Arroyo this morning, said. "A little sad, of course."
The crisis began in earnest Tuesday with the collapse of her Senate trial over allegations he took more than $60-million (U.S.) in kickbacks in just two years in office. He allegedly used the money to finance her playboy lifestyle, numerous mistresses and at least eight illegitimate children.
With Mrs. Arroyo poised to escape impeachment, a coalition of business, church and labour leaders began hitting the streets to demand her ouster.
They were joined by many of the country's working class and poor, who formed the backbone of her support in the past.
Early this morning, amid rumors of an impending military coup, Manila's powerful archbishop, Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales, demanded that Mrs. Arroyo resign by noon, calling the President a poor moral example for the country. It was a sign of the Roman Catholic Church's tremendous influence in Philippine society.
And the protesters backed him up. Chanting slogans and praying, they began marching through the capital's streets.
"Our soldiers will give us support," Senator Dr. Mona Valisno told supporters yesterday.
Mrs. Arroyo went on national television yesterday in an attempt to save her presidency by appealing directly to the country. First she said she would hold on to power; then she proposed stepping down after a May election in which she would not participate.
It appeared to be an attempt to prevent the ascension of Mr. de Castro, her bitter rival. He resigned from cabinet last October, a week after the long-rumoured allegations of Mrs. Arroyo's kickbacks surfaced publicly.
"Since I still have the support of a significant segment of our people, I do not think that the present polarization can be healed by a new leader who will take over without an electoral mandate from our people," Mrs. Arroyo said in her televised address.
LTO 8 looks forward to ISO certification
Tacloban City (January 20) -- The Land Transportation Office in Region 8 is working doubly hard as it looks forward to obtaining an ISO Certification for implementing a quality management system for its driver’s licensing process.
Director Raul Aguilos said that the ISO certification will only be awarded after thorough audit. It will signify that LTO 8 has passed the internationally recognized quality management system requirements developed by the International Organization for Standardization or ISO.
The ISO standard, Director Aguilos said, enhances and provides an ideal framework and philosophy for building world-class quality organizations.
In its quest for an ISO certification, LTO 8 will soon launch the LTO Tacloban City Licensing Center which is now being constructed at the LTO Compound, Director Aguilos informed. This center will only cater to the applications for driver’s license, both new and renewal.
The Center will adopt the ISO 9001: 2000 Quality Management Standards which will help increase efficiency and customer satisfaction for thousands of driver’s license applicants, Director Aguilos said.
Director Aguilos added that with the implementation of ISO quality management standards, processing of new driver’s license applications will only take one day and the processing of renewals will only take thirty (30) minutes.
LTO 8’s quest for an ISO accreditation is a manifestation of its commitment to make LTO a model agency that provides quality service to the public, Director Aguilos quipped as he expressed with pride that the LTO has all the ingredients of becoming a model agency for all frontline government agencies with its information technology (IT) system connecting LTO offices nationwide, combined with various productivity and quality projects such as the ISO standard and 5S or good housekeeping practice.
Director Aguilos said that the LTO IT Project has brought a dramatic change to LTO, as evidenced by the significant improvements that computerization has brought to the agency and so the quest for an ISO Certification is now very much possible.
There are only three LTO Regional Offices which are candidates for the issuance of ISO Certificate, Director Aguilos revealed, LTO Region 11 in Davao, LTO Region 10 in General Santos and LTO 8 in Eastern Visayas. (PIA 8)
Director Raul Aguilos said that the ISO certification will only be awarded after thorough audit. It will signify that LTO 8 has passed the internationally recognized quality management system requirements developed by the International Organization for Standardization or ISO.
The ISO standard, Director Aguilos said, enhances and provides an ideal framework and philosophy for building world-class quality organizations.
In its quest for an ISO certification, LTO 8 will soon launch the LTO Tacloban City Licensing Center which is now being constructed at the LTO Compound, Director Aguilos informed. This center will only cater to the applications for driver’s license, both new and renewal.
The Center will adopt the ISO 9001: 2000 Quality Management Standards which will help increase efficiency and customer satisfaction for thousands of driver’s license applicants, Director Aguilos said.
Director Aguilos added that with the implementation of ISO quality management standards, processing of new driver’s license applications will only take one day and the processing of renewals will only take thirty (30) minutes.
LTO 8’s quest for an ISO accreditation is a manifestation of its commitment to make LTO a model agency that provides quality service to the public, Director Aguilos quipped as he expressed with pride that the LTO has all the ingredients of becoming a model agency for all frontline government agencies with its information technology (IT) system connecting LTO offices nationwide, combined with various productivity and quality projects such as the ISO standard and 5S or good housekeeping practice.
Director Aguilos said that the LTO IT Project has brought a dramatic change to LTO, as evidenced by the significant improvements that computerization has brought to the agency and so the quest for an ISO Certification is now very much possible.
There are only three LTO Regional Offices which are candidates for the issuance of ISO Certificate, Director Aguilos revealed, LTO Region 11 in Davao, LTO Region 10 in General Santos and LTO 8 in Eastern Visayas. (PIA 8)
Region 8 agri dev't workers get updates on latest abaca technologies
Tacloban City (January 20) -- With the aim of updating agricultural development workers on the latest abaca technologies and in dealing with the problems on abaca, the Abaca Disease Management and Rehabilitation Team (ADMART), spearheaded a training on Abaca-Production and Pest Management at the Training Hall of the Leyte State University based Agricultural Training Institute.
The training was participated in by 22 agricultural technologists and municipal agriculture officers from Leyte, Southern Leyte and Ormoc City.
Among the topics discussed is were the abaca diseases management and industry development ordinance of the Province of Leyte and its implementing rules and regulations, which may serve as a sample or reference by the other provinces. Other topics were quarantine regulations, abaca situationer, varietal identification, abaca production and management, disease indexing and care and management of tissue cultured plantlets, abaca diseases and their control, postharvest technologies and grading and classification of fiber. The participants were also exposed to demonstrations on eradication of abaca bunchy top and handling pesticides, tuxying and shipping, and yarning, twining and twisting and combing. The Abaca Disease Management and Rehabilitation Team or ADMART is a conglomeration of various offices which includes the Provincial Government of Leyte, the Leyte Fifth Congressional District, the Fiber Development Authority, the Agricultural Training Institute, NARC and the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Plant Quarantine. ADMART main thrust is to monitor, map out strategies and actions, formulate policies, and provide technical assistance to eradicate abaca diseases in Leyte. (PIA 8)
The training was participated in by 22 agricultural technologists and municipal agriculture officers from Leyte, Southern Leyte and Ormoc City.
Among the topics discussed is were the abaca diseases management and industry development ordinance of the Province of Leyte and its implementing rules and regulations, which may serve as a sample or reference by the other provinces. Other topics were quarantine regulations, abaca situationer, varietal identification, abaca production and management, disease indexing and care and management of tissue cultured plantlets, abaca diseases and their control, postharvest technologies and grading and classification of fiber. The participants were also exposed to demonstrations on eradication of abaca bunchy top and handling pesticides, tuxying and shipping, and yarning, twining and twisting and combing. The Abaca Disease Management and Rehabilitation Team or ADMART is a conglomeration of various offices which includes the Provincial Government of Leyte, the Leyte Fifth Congressional District, the Fiber Development Authority, the Agricultural Training Institute, NARC and the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Plant Quarantine. ADMART main thrust is to monitor, map out strategies and actions, formulate policies, and provide technical assistance to eradicate abaca diseases in Leyte. (PIA 8)
Deadline for CSC career written exams application set on February 9
Tacloban City (January 20) -- The deadline for the filing of applications for the nationwide conduct of the first Career Service Professional and Subprofessional written examinations for the year which has been set on March 11 by the Civil Service Commission (CSC), is on February 9.
The Civil Service Commission in Region 8 informed that the testing centers for Region 8 are in Tacloban City and Borongan, Eastern Samar.
The Career Service Professional and sub-professional written examinations (Paper and pencil test) are open to applicants who are Filipino citizens and at least 18 years old, regardless of educational attainment.
Application requirements are properly accomplished application form, four copies of latest, not more than three months, and identical passport sized ID pictures with the full name tag (should not be computer-generated), and original and photocopy of one valid ID. The applicants are advised to personally file their examination applications at the Civil Service Regional or Field Office nearest them. Examination Fee is P350.
Application forms are available at the CSC Regional Office No. 8 at Government Center, Palo, Leyte or at any CSC Provincial/Field Office, or may be downloaded from the CSC website www.csc.gov.ph.
The CSC reminds examination applicants to take note of the frequency of taking both the career service examinations, which is limited to only once every three months or a maximum of four times. Examinees who fail on the fourth attempt can apply for the same level of examination only after two years from the date of the fourth examination was taken.
The CSC reiterates that it does not hold any review class nor does it publish and distribute any review material for its various examinations including the career service exams. Also, the CSC has not accredited any review center for the purpose of holding and offering review classes to prospective civil service examinees.
For additional information, interested parties may inquire from the Examination Services Division, CSC Regional Office No. 8. (PIA 8)
The Civil Service Commission in Region 8 informed that the testing centers for Region 8 are in Tacloban City and Borongan, Eastern Samar.
The Career Service Professional and sub-professional written examinations (Paper and pencil test) are open to applicants who are Filipino citizens and at least 18 years old, regardless of educational attainment.
Application requirements are properly accomplished application form, four copies of latest, not more than three months, and identical passport sized ID pictures with the full name tag (should not be computer-generated), and original and photocopy of one valid ID. The applicants are advised to personally file their examination applications at the Civil Service Regional or Field Office nearest them. Examination Fee is P350.
Application forms are available at the CSC Regional Office No. 8 at Government Center, Palo, Leyte or at any CSC Provincial/Field Office, or may be downloaded from the CSC website www.csc.gov.ph.
The CSC reminds examination applicants to take note of the frequency of taking both the career service examinations, which is limited to only once every three months or a maximum of four times. Examinees who fail on the fourth attempt can apply for the same level of examination only after two years from the date of the fourth examination was taken.
The CSC reiterates that it does not hold any review class nor does it publish and distribute any review material for its various examinations including the career service exams. Also, the CSC has not accredited any review center for the purpose of holding and offering review classes to prospective civil service examinees.
For additional information, interested parties may inquire from the Examination Services Division, CSC Regional Office No. 8. (PIA 8)
Tacloban Chamber of Commerce bats for scrapping of legislated wage hike
Tacloban City (January 20) -- The Tacloban Filipino Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (TFCCCI) bats for the scrapping of House Bill 345 and Senate Bill 2030 which mandate an across the board minimum wage increase of P125 and P100 per day, respectively.
The Chamber opines that should there be any wage increase, the same should be determined by the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Boards of each region of the country and that Congress should push for more non-wage benefits for workers and enact measures to mitigate the effects of high cost of living, such as exempting the minimum wage earners from income taxes.
Mr. Henry Yaokasin said that the Chamber has sent a position paper to the Senate Committee on Labor on January 18 expressing the sentiment of the business community in the Region. He said that the Chamber represents the employer, business and management sector in Eastern Visayas Region which comprises the provinces in the islands of Leyte, Samar and Biliran, more particularly, Tacloban City, at the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board.
As such, Mr. Yaokasin said that the Chamber believes in tripartism with Government, labor and management in resolving wage and labor issues through the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity board.
The Chamber said that while it sympathizes with the plight of the labor sector for a significant wage adjustment, due to poor business climate in the country, particularly in Eastern Visayas Region, coupled with the sharp increase in operating costs, the Employers in the Region which are composed mostly of agriculture, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and family businesses, could hardly afford a salary increase of P125 as passed by the House of Representatives through House Bill No. 345 or a salary increase of P100 as proposed by the Senate under House Bill No. 2030.
The legislated wage increases will endanger many small and medium enterprises in the country particularly in Region 8. This would also worsen the unemployment rate due to massive retrenchment and displacement of workers. As a result, the country’s already moving up economy will be severely harmed.
Any wage increase will affect the cost of production and in order to meet increased labor cost, the business sector is will be compelled to increase prices of commodities which is inflationary and will cancel out the benefit of the wage increase.
Besides, it was only on July 4, 2006 when the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board of Region VIII, passed Wage Order RB VIII-13 increasing the minimum wage from P188 to P220 per day, the Chamber said. (PIA 8)
The Chamber opines that should there be any wage increase, the same should be determined by the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Boards of each region of the country and that Congress should push for more non-wage benefits for workers and enact measures to mitigate the effects of high cost of living, such as exempting the minimum wage earners from income taxes.
Mr. Henry Yaokasin said that the Chamber has sent a position paper to the Senate Committee on Labor on January 18 expressing the sentiment of the business community in the Region. He said that the Chamber represents the employer, business and management sector in Eastern Visayas Region which comprises the provinces in the islands of Leyte, Samar and Biliran, more particularly, Tacloban City, at the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board.
As such, Mr. Yaokasin said that the Chamber believes in tripartism with Government, labor and management in resolving wage and labor issues through the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity board.
The Chamber said that while it sympathizes with the plight of the labor sector for a significant wage adjustment, due to poor business climate in the country, particularly in Eastern Visayas Region, coupled with the sharp increase in operating costs, the Employers in the Region which are composed mostly of agriculture, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and family businesses, could hardly afford a salary increase of P125 as passed by the House of Representatives through House Bill No. 345 or a salary increase of P100 as proposed by the Senate under House Bill No. 2030.
The legislated wage increases will endanger many small and medium enterprises in the country particularly in Region 8. This would also worsen the unemployment rate due to massive retrenchment and displacement of workers. As a result, the country’s already moving up economy will be severely harmed.
Any wage increase will affect the cost of production and in order to meet increased labor cost, the business sector is will be compelled to increase prices of commodities which is inflationary and will cancel out the benefit of the wage increase.
Besides, it was only on July 4, 2006 when the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board of Region VIII, passed Wage Order RB VIII-13 increasing the minimum wage from P188 to P220 per day, the Chamber said. (PIA 8)
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