Statement of President Joseph Ejercito Estrada:
On the Jose Velarde Account
First of all, I thank the Good Lord for giving us this initial favorable vote—which is the first major vote in the many more major votes to be cast in the impeachment trial.
This trial has been a very difficult and trying experience for us and for the entire Filipino nation. Just like in any important trial, as shown in the past weeks—you win some you lose some. But I am praying that in the end, our lawyers will be able to get justice for us.
Since the beginning of the trial, I have been praying that in the end, whatever is the outcome, our constitutional system and democratic institutions will remain stronger and more vibrant than ever.
I appeal to our countrymen to keep calm and pray for strength and guidance. Let us pray that we may be spared of further violence, injuries or deaths that have plagued our country in recent times.
Mga minamahal kong mga kababayan, tayo ay magpakahinahon at magdasal ng lakas at patnubay upang huwag magkaroon ng anumang karahasan at iba pang pangyayari na hindi ikabubuti at ipagkakaisa ng ating bayan. I wish to assure the public that the Jose Velarde Account is not mine.
