Latest Eraption: Kung may Erap, may ginhawa

MANILA, Philippines - Former President Joseph Estrada kicked off his presidential bid for the May 10 elections with the campaign slogan “Kung may Erap, may ginhawa (If there’s Erap, there’s prosperity).”

Estrada, standard-bearer of the Pwersa ng Masang Pilipino-United Opposition (PMP-UNO), and running mate Makati City Mayor Jejomar Binay formally launched their campaign at Plaza Miranda in Manila yesterday, marking the start of their nationwide campaign.

Estrada also launched his series of television ads promoting his promise of progress for poor Filipinos.

Estrada said the political ads contain his promise to continue the programs of his administration that was aborted when he was ousted from office in 2001.

He said the ads also acknowledged his suffering during his incarceration.

Estrada and Binay would be hitting the campaign trail with their senatorial candidates that include guest candidates Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago, Sen. Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr. and detained Army general Danilo Lim.

The other senatorial candidates are lawyer JV Bautista, businessman Jose “Joey” de Venecia III, Agusan del Sur Rep. Rodolfo Plaza and Negros Occidental Rep. Apolinario Lozada.

PMP spokesman Ralph Calinisan said the campaign kickoff ceremonies marked a big day for democracy and for the Filipino people.

“The journey of poor Filipino masses and their return to Malacañang will begin (today),” Calinisan said.

Calinisan said Estrada would formally endorse former Environment secretary Lito Atienza’s comeback bid for Manila mayor.

Atienza, a staunch ally of President Arroyo, recently announced his support for Estrada, describing the former president as the best person to lead the country.