Honasan denies plot to kill Erap

Sen. Gregorio Honasan denied yesterday claims by Rebolusyonaryong Alyansang Makabansa (RAM) spokesman, retired Navy Capt. Proceso Maligalig, that the opposition senator had plotted to assassinate deposed President Joseph Estrada in 2001.

Honasan spoke through his counsel, Daniel Gutierrez, and said the allegation was "intended to prop up the deteriorating image of Defense Secretary Angelo Reyes."

"It is a preposterous story. It could have been funny had it not been for the volatile situation right now. Their (the government) style is to discredit and destroy me to create a negative public perception against me," Gutierrez quoted the "inaccessible" senator as saying.

Honasan claimed the motivation of the government, through Maligalig, in connivance with some from the media, is to "prop up the image of Reyes."

"They are even making it appear that Reyes, who is facing serious charges of corruption from the junior military officers who staged the military actions (July 27 mutiny) in Makati, is a hero and a savior of the country," Honasan said.

He also said the Arroyo administration is working to create a division between him and another colleague, Sen. Panfilo Lacson, to destroy the opposition. Honasan and Lacson both belong to the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1971.

For his part, Estrada said Maligalig’s claims are a "diversionary tactic."

"It’s a good storyline for a movie," the former movie actor said. "It’s a diversionary tactic to save not only Reyes’ image but (also) the deteriorating Arroyo administration."

Estrada expressed disbelief that Honasan, a close ally of the opposition, would plot to assassinate him.

"It’s impossible. The last time I talked with him was last year during his birthday. The Arroyo government could not do anything (any)more. Our country is in turmoil. The peace and order problem has worsened and the economy is not that good compared to my watch," he said.

Estrada said the Arroyo administration should concentrate on addressing the worsening economic problem.

"I feel vindicated when I compare the peace and order situation in the country... and the economy under my watch is better than the present administration. As I said, (Maligalig’s) story is a good storyline for a movie," Estrada said. - With Edith Regalado