GMA no longer a flight risk – Erap

MANILA, Philippines - Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada said yesterday that former President and now Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo is no longer a flight risk and should be allowed to seek medical treatment in a hospital of her choice.

Estrada is supporting calls for the government to place Arroyo under house arrest.

“The Aquino administration must give compassion to President Arroyo whose health is deteriorating,” he said.

Estrada, who was convicted of plunder by the Sandiganbayan, had been allowed by Arroyo to undergo knee surgery abroad during his imprisonment.

Arroyo granted pardon to Estrada in October 2007.