Estrada supports rally against Cha-Cha

Former Philippine President Joseph EstradaJoseph Estrada today expressed strong support to efforts by opposition groups rallying behind a move to resist amendments to constitution most commonly known as "cha-cha".

The congress, through a vote of majority, passed a resolution on Wednesday for its advancement despite popular clamor to trash it until after election on 2010.

It has been considered by most sector the only motive was to extend the terms of those in the seat of power at the top of which is President Gloria Macapagal ArroyoPresident Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.

Presidential candidates, including vice-president Noli de CastroNoli de Castro, are united in taking the same stand with the former president.

In a radio comment, Estrada said the administration was always fond of taking sudden turns that create surprising confusion.

The "hello garci" incident, the zte deal, the bolante fertilizer scam, to name a few, were cases perpetrated using influence of power and as one might expect remained unsolved.

This latest trickery would ignite a renewed dissent and revived mass action.

Ms. Leah Navarro of the Black and White Movement, joined by other opposition groups, has vowed enduring continuance to resist its implementation.

The Palace has repeatedly said election will push through and that there was no more time for a constitutional assembly. Yet rumors were being whispered around that Malacanang has distributed around 20 million pesos to each administration congressman to influence them to vote in favor of "cha-cha."