Estrada visit gesture of compassion

This is a rejoinder to the letter of a certain George Jimenez (Opinion, 1/1/14).

The visit of Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada to former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo last Dec. 22 was a pure gesture of Christian compassion. There was no other motive or consideration.

The visit was planned a year ago but was delayed by certain developments. Arroyo visited Estrada when he was detained in a military camp in Laguna in 2001.

It is unfortunate that certain quarters found malice in Estrada’s Christian act. Contrary also to claims, Estrada could not be manipulated or used by anyone or any interest.

As for flamboyant lawyer Ferdinand Topacio, he is lawyering for former First Gentleman Mike

Arroyo. His acts, therefore, speak for this relationship.

At this point, I am reminded of a Biblical proverb: “Is your mind evil because we want to be good?”

Best regards and Happy New Year!

—IKE C. GUTIERREZ,

spokesperson of Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada,

[email protected]