It’s Dirty Harry vs. Asiong Salonga for Mayor.
Bitter political rivals incumbent Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim and former President Joseph Estrada battled it off Tuesday morning in a live television debate.
The two argued briefly about issues in the city such as social services, debt, corruption, and peace and order. However, what was expected to be a political discussion turned personal when Estrada accused Lim, while a member of his Cabinet in 2001, of turning his back on him and deserting him during Edsa Dos.
It can be remembered that the former President was forced to abandon his post after a popular revolt in 2001. He was charged and convicted for perjury and plunder and was sentenced to reclusion perpetua in 2007. Former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo pardoned him that year, amid much controversy.
Estrada said he forgave Lim for abandoning him when the latter came to his house in Tanay, Rizal and begged for forgiveness. He also said Lim came to him crying and begged to be included in the senatorial line up of the late Fernando Poe Jr., who ran but lost in the Presidential race in 2004.
Lim vehemently denied this and called Estrada a liar on national television. He said the former President was only making up stories.
Estrada, who was mayor of San Juan from 1969 to 1986, said this will be the last time he will be running for office. His running mate is incumbent Manila Vice Mayor Isko Moreno.
