Yeah, President Arroyo granted pardon to the 70-year old Joseph Estrada, after the recommendation by the Department of Justice (DOJ).  

Why?

*The pardon was granted after Estrada publicly agreed not to pursue any other elective office.

*It is part of Arroyo's policy of releasing prisoners who have reached 70 years of age and in recognition of Estrada's six years in detention, much of it under house arrest.

*This is a reconciliatory move to pave way for the unity.

The Consequences

*Estrada has been restored his civil and political rights.

*Despite the above, the forfeiture decision imposed by the Sandiganbayan anti-graft court remained in force, except for the bank accounts he owned before his tenure as President.

Well, I know that the power of the President under the consitution is absolute once the conditions for the grant of pardon are there.  I just have hope that she considered all factors.  I don't know, but I just find this TOO SOON.  Ganun na lang ba 'yun?

Here is the full text of the President's order:

“Whereas, this Administration has a policy of releasing inmates who have reached the age of seventy (70),

“Whereas, Joseph Ejercito Estrada has been under detention for six and a half years,

“Whereas, Joseph Ejercito Estrada has publicly committed to no longer seek any elective position or office,

“In view hereof and pursuant to the authority conferred upon me by the Constitution, I hereby grant executive clemency to Joseph Ejercito Estrada, convicted by the Sandiganbayan of plunder and imposed a penalty of reclusion perpetua. He is hereby restored to his civil and political rights.

“The forfeitures imposed by the Sandiganbayan remain in force and in full, including all writs and processes issued by the Sandiganbayan in pursuance hereof, except for the bank account(s) he owned before his tenure as President.”