Estrada's proclamation as mayor of Manila on hold
By: Lira D. Fernandez, InterAksyon.com
May 14, 2013 2:17 AM
The online news portal of TV5
MANILA, Philippines – (UPDATE) The proclamation of former president Joseph Estrada as new mayor of the City of Manila was put on hold early dawn Tuesday after lawyers of incumbent mayor Alfredo Lim asked for a deferment.
Estrada’s lead over Lim was statistically insurmountable, with almost 95 percent of the votes showing that he was the winner.
But the camp of Lim insisted that all votes should have been canvassed completely before any proclamation could be announced.
Partial, unofficial results from PPCRV showed that Estrada’s running mate, incumbent Vice Mayor Isko Moreno, also won another term.
Estrada’s family, friends and supporters had anxiously gathered to witness his proclamation at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium, command center of the Manila Board of Canvassers.
In an earlier interview aired live on radio, Estrada said: "I would consider this (victory) as one of the consolation, that the people still have trust in me in spite of the black propaganda thrown at me during the time I was impeached. ... This win is an additional vindication."
He said he was willing to extend the hand of reconciliation to Lim, following a bitter fight during the campaign period.
"I am a very forgiving man. I've forgiven those who have removed me illegally. I hope they don't do it again." he said.
Estrada said he would focus on restoring peace and order in the city, where he said he was born, to lure investors and businesses.