Makabayan bloc explains why Joseph Estrada’s support welcome

What gives?

How could the militant Makabayan bloc in Congress accept the support of Manila Mayor Joseph “Erap” Estrada for the candidacy of Bayan Muna Rep. Neri Colmenares?

The backing comes with no strings attached, said Teddy Casiño, vice president of the Makabayan coalition.

Casiño said that welcoming Estrada’s support for Colmenares did not mean the militant groups had turned their back on their principles and renounced their role in Estrada’s ouster from the presidency in 2001.

Makabayan—which is composed of 11 progressive groups—accepted Estrada’s endorsement because the mayor is supporting Colmenares for his consistency and stand on issues, which is good, Casiño said.

“The basic issue is, why did he endorse Neri? Is it because we have turned our backs on our cause? No. Is it because we groveled at his feet? No. Is it because we said we made a mistake in Edsa Dos? No,” Casiño said in a phone interview.

“He endorsed him because Neri would be a good addition to the Senate,” he said.

Casiño said the militant groups established ties with Estrada when they were among the groups calling for the ouster of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.

The militant groups had reached out to all those who were in the political opposition at the time and they had to unite for a common purpose, he said.

“I think he was able to see firsthand that we are decent people to talk with,” he added.

He noted that Estrada after his ouster was jailed, tried and convicted for plunder, but was released after he was pardoned by Arroyo.

“Basically, he has been held accountable for whatever wrongdoing, for his plunder during his term,” Casiño said

Asked if Estrada’s support meant that Makabayan would back his bid for reelection, in case the mayor decides to run again next year, Casiño said there no such thing.

Makabayan has yet to decide whom to support for Manila mayor next year, he said.

The coalition’s Manila chapter is in discussions with Estrada on local issues, such as the privatization of public markets. This did not mean Makabayan agreed with him; its members even joined a rally on the privatization issue, Casiño noted.