Philippine Coup

As a Filipino living in the States, I read with great interest about the “2nd People’s Power” staged by every sector of the nation (“ ‘Constitutional Coup’ Ended Estrada’s Rule,” Jan. 22). It is also noteworthy to point out (whether good or bad) that again the military played an important role in this coup. Among all of the generals who participated, the one I would assume is the most honorable is Gen. Fortunato Abat. Not only has he devoted his life to public service through the military and government work, he has made the supreme sacrifice--his only son, a newly minted officer, died in action fighting the communist guerrillas in the hinterlands of the Philippines a few years ago.

CLAUDE A. MARTINEZ

Long Beach

* Re: “Philippines Deserves Help Against Estrada,” Jan. 19: The Philippines has much to celebrate. They rid themselves of a corrupt and venal president, and did so without the help of a Big Brother U.S. all too eager to meddle in others’ affairs. Power corrupts.

MICHAEL HELPERIN

Los Angeles