Erap's bday wish: clean polls, less cigarettes

Former President Joseph "Erap" Estrada on Sunday said he has nothing else to wish for in his 73rd birthday on Monday, except for the country to have clean and honest elections on May 10. Estrada, convicted of plunder in 2007 but granted clemency on the same year, likewise said he has everything, including his "renewed freedom." But if there's one thing the presidential aspirant would do for himself, it is to reduce his tobacco intake. "Maybe I should cut back on smoking," he told reporters in Filipino on the sidelines of his advanced birthday celebration in Makati City, turf of his running mate Mayor Jejomar Binay. While admitting his smoking habits, Estrada belied widespread rumors he was a drunkard. "I only drink wine," he said. The former leader likewise disclosed that his wife, former Sen. Luisa Ejercito, and children Jacqueline and Senate Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada, gave him a brand new Toyota Sequoia sport utility vehicle for his birthday. "I wanted to use it today. Maybe I'll use it tomorrow when I go to Tanay [in Rizal province] where I always celebrate my birthday," said Estrada. Estrada also said in jest that he would not buy himself a new pair of jeans, referring to his campaign sortie in Leyte last week, where his pants ripped open. Hundreds of Makati residents attended Estrada's advanced birthday bash held at the Makati Coliseum. Most of them were supporters of Binay, whose son, Jun-Jun, is seeking to replace him as mayor in the coming May 10 polls. Binay said preparing the event was his gift to Estrada. "Ano pa ba ire-regalo natin kay Pangulo (What else could we give the President as gift)," said the vice presidential aspirant. Estrada was also accompanied by Pwersa ng Masang Pilipino senatorial bets Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile, Jose de Venecia III, former Negros Oriental Rep. Apolinario Lozada, and Jinggoy Estrada, who is seeking re-election. Enrile told the crowd that his wishes for Estrada were "good health, a clear mind, a strong heart so you can fight for our country's welfare." The supporters likewise sang "Happy Birthday" for Estrada as he blew the candle placed on a huge orange cake. - KBK, GMANews.TV