Joseph Estrada Trial

After being ousted and impeached in 2001, former President of the Philippines Joseph Estrada was tried for perjury and plunder. After more than six years of court proceedings, the Sandiganbayan court acquitted Estrada of perjury, but found him guilty of plunder. The court sentenced him to life in prison. On October 25, 2007, he was pardoned by his successor Gloria Arroyo.

Fast Facts

1. Embezzling $80m while in power
2. The trial took more than six years
3. Disqualified from public office
4. Forced to forfeit stolen funds
5. Filed 63-page appeal on September 26, 2007
6. Pardoned on October 25, 2007
7. Estrada's co-conspirators were acquited following his conviction
8. Released from prison on October 26, 2007

Appeal and Pardon

Estrada sought an unconditional pardon from President Gloria Arroyo. He had been imprisoned for nearly seven years, and was 70-years old at the time. After considering Estrada's age, the period in detention he had already served, his mother's failing health and his promise not to seek elected office, Arroyo chose to grant executive clemency.

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