MANILA, Philippines -- Former president Joseph Estrada said Tuesday he is happy with the declaration of Makati City Mayor and United Opposition president Jejomar Binay of his plan to run for president in 2010.

"I hope he will make it," Estrada said, although noting it is still too early to officially endorse anybody as the opposition's standard bearer.

"He has proven his capability as chief executive of Makati and he is one of the most qualified presidential candidates," Estrada told INQUIRER.net in a phone interview soon after Binay announced his bid.

Estrada said he will first review results of surveys on the many possible opposition presidential candidates before officially naming his choice for 2010.

But he said Binay would make a good candidate because of his experience as a local executive.

"I believe that he won't even run if he doesn't know he's capable," said Estrada, adding that the presidency is more "managerial," akin to running a local government unit, than legislative.

He added Binay's timing could not have been more right since it would allow proper planning for the campaign.

However, Estrada said he expects more members of the opposition to express interest in the country's top post.

"Of course, there's so many candidates from the opposition. This goes to show that we have better candidates than the administration," said Estrada.

He said he remains open to the idea of running in 2010, but only if the opposition won't unite.

"If they don't unite, that's my last option," Estrada said.

Estrada was ousted by a popular uprising in 2001 and replaced with President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, then the vice president.

He was found guilty of plunder (not perjury as earlier reported) but was pardoned by Arroyo.