Editorial

Edsa 4...5...6... anyone?

If the jueteng issue against the First Family goes out of control, chances are that President Arroyo may be ousted in a way similar to how she assumed power.

Former President Estrada, who is now under house arrest and is 'scared' that his ducks may soon talk to him, was ousted four years ago on charges that he received payola from people perceived to be the country's top gambling kingpins. Ilocos Sur Governor Chavit Singson accused Estrada of receiving huge payoffs in exchange for protecting the illegal numbers game. Issues and accusations snowballed against Estrada until Arroyo, who was vice president at that time, assumed the presidency in what is to be the climax for Edsa Dos.

Now, President Arroyo, First Gentleman Jose Miguel Arroyo and Pampanga Rep. Mikey Arroyo are accused of receiving monthly jueteng payola by a person claiming to be deeply involved in the operation of the illegal numbers game.

Karma probably? Maybe.

Whether or not the First Family is guilty is for the courts to decide.

But the country could hardly afford another 'people's uprising.'

There are institutional mechanisms-we have the courts of law, the prosecuting arms, and we have the Senate that could serve as an impeachment court.

And it is about time that these mechanisms, or safeguards whatever you may call them, should be strengthened.

Resorting to 'people's uprising' is very risky. Oppurtunistic invidividuals or groups could take advantage of this, and eventually bastardize that vague concept of 'people's will' and usurp State power.