Estrada Calls for His Impeachment Trial to Resume

Philippine President Joseph Estrada, seeking to mute mounting calls for his resignation, appealed today for the resumption of his impeachment trial and the unsealing of evidence that prosecutors say shows he received millions of dollars in illegal payments.

However, his proposal appeared to be too little too late as opponents were joined by top military officers today at protests that have continued for four days. The defection of top military officials is likely to cripple Estrada’s presidency and could be the crucial development that forces him to step down.

Estrada has been under increasing pressure to quit since Tuesday, when prosecutors refused to carry on with his impeachment trial and tens of thousands of protesters took to the streets.