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» 2000 - Impeaching a President
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An overwhelming mandate catapulted Joseph Estrada to the Presidency. As a forum for constructive ideas, the MBC actively took part in the formulation of the medium-term Philippine Development Plan, in the Economic Mobiliza-tion Group, and in the Preparatory Commission on constitutional amend-ments. But El Niño, the ongoing Asian financial crisis, kidnappings by the Abu Sayyaf, and a series of corruption scandals crushed hopes for a fresh start, leading to an economic downturn. Pres. Estrada’s lavish lifestyle, alleged ties with illegal numbers game operations, misuse of tobacco excise tax, and cronyism led to his impeach-ment. As a result, MBC joined other groups calling for the President’s resig-nation. The impeachment trial ended abruptly when the Senator-Judges suppressed evidence, triggering public outrage and the military’s withdra-wal of support. People Power II ousted Pres. Estrada and installed Vice-President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to the presidency. |
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