Erap extends help to family of slain officer
Former president Joseph Estrada on Friday handed out cash and scholarship assistance to the family of slain Lt. Col. Angel Benitez, just four days after President Macapagal Arroyo gave the same assistance.
Estrada arrived at the Benitez residence in Barangay Tabuc Suba in Jaro District here around 10:55 a.m. and stayed at the wake for around 30 minutes talking with Benitez's widow Maria Elena or "Cookie" and her four children.
The wake turned festive as fans and well-wishers flocked to the residence to see and shook hands with the former movie idol.
The ousted President said he gave P300,000 in assistance to the family and assured them that he will support the education of the four children, aged 9 to 15, until they finish college.
He said the children can take whatever course they want. "Kahit medicine," the former President told reporters.
When pointed out that the President also gave the same assistance last Monday, Estrada said what is important is that help is given to Benitez and other soldiers wounded and slain in combat. He said he came to the wake to extend his sympathy to the family.
"It is my duty as the former Commander in Chief (of the Armed Forces of the Philippines)," said Estrada.
Benitez, 40, executive officer of the 102nd Army Brigade, was killed along with other soldiers, when they were trapped by Moro Islamic Liberation Front rebels in Lanao del Norte on August 18. He was the highest ranking soldier killed by Moro rebels since 2005.
The President also gave financial assistance of an unspecified amount to the family of Benitez during a visit to the wake last Monday. Ms Arroyo also promised to support the education of the slain officer's four children.
Cookie said she welcomed the help of Estrada.
"It's a blessing. I'm happy with whatever help for my children," she said in an interview.