PHILIPPINES: SENATE PUSHES IMPEACHMENT PROCEEDINGS

Описание: (9 Jan 2001) English/Nat
XFA
The Philippine Senate pushed forward with the impeachment proceedings against President Joseph Estrada on Tuesday, wading through motions to quash evidence and testimony.

The Senate began trying President Joseph Estrada on December 7 on charges of bribery, graft, betrayal of public trust and violation of the constitution.

A conviction on any charge by two-thirds of the 22-member Senate would force him from office.

Estrada denies any wrongdoing.

And the President was again predicting victory in the trial which is supposed to end by February 12.

SOUNDBITE: (English)
"There is nothing in all the 220 words that we counted on this impeachment complaint on this particular charge which suspects that the president had anything to do with the alleged stock manipulation of PW shares."
SUPER CAPTION: Raul Daza, Defence Attorney to Estrada

SOUNDBITE: (English)
"That the documents sought to be produced by the witnesses mentioned are relevant to the facts in issue in respect of the stock manipulation. The investigation thereon as well. So for this reason the court would have to deny the motion to quash."
SUPER CAPTION: Hilario Davide, Philippines Chief Justice

SOUNDBITE: (English)
"Let me assure everyone that I will abide by the outcome of the ongoing impeachment process so this is consistent with our constitution. I am confident that the truth will prevail in the end. I am convinced that I will be cleared of all issues that are unfairly being leveled against me. In the final analysis, those that put their personal and political interests above the interests of our country will be proven wrong."
SUPER CAPTION: Joseph Estrada, Philippine President

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