Loi seeks to be with Estrada at Senate reunion

Sen. Luisa "Loi" Ejercito-Estrada is still hoping she can attend today’s 85th Senate anniversary and reunion celebration with an escort.

The Sandiganbayan, however, has yet to decide on her request to allow her husband, deposed President Joseph Estrada, himself a former senator, to be released temporarily from jail and join her even for a photo session of all senators with their spouses.

Upon the request of the former first lady, Senate President Franklin Drilon had instructed the Senate secretary to ask the anti-graft court if the jailed leader could attend the traditional reunion of past and present members of the chamber.

Still, Mrs. Estrada said she was prepared to accept a rejection by the Sandiganbayan after the Philippine National Police expressed concern over security and expenses each time the former leader comes out of detention.

In an interview, the senator also criticized Ombudsman Aniano Desierto for meddling in issues that were brought before the Sandiganbayan.

"Huwag siyang makialam, hindi naman siya ang tinatanong (He should not interfere because he is not the one being asked)," Mrs. Estrada said.

The reunion of senators will have as special guests President Arroyo and Vice President Teofisto Guingona, both former senators themselves. Drilon will act as host of the affair.

The Philippine Senate was established in 1916 by virtue of the Jones law, which provided for the creation of a bicameral legislature to perform legislative functions and to execute checks and balances on other branches of government.

It played a crucial role in reclaiming the country’s independence during the American regime. For generations, it maintained a reputation as the bastion of people’s freedoms.

The chamber also prides itself with having the most articulate voices in Philippine politics. In 1991, it was the Senate that put an end to the 1947 Bases Agreement between the US and the Philippines.

The Senate also produced several presidents, including Manuel Quezon, Sergio Osmeña Sr., Jose Laurel Sr., Manuel Roxas, Elpidio Quirino, Carlos Garcia, Ferdinand Marcos, Estrada and Mrs. Arroyo.