Erap: Raps due to politics

MANILA, Philippines - Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada yesterday called the graft charges filed against him and other city officials in connection with the renovation of Quinta Market “politically motivated.”

Stall holders at the market, who filed the charges with the Office of the Ombudsman on Monday, alleged that Estrada violated procurement laws by awarding a contract to renovate the market to a private firm without conducting a public bidding.

Estrada said 200 vendors received a certificate that would ensure their spot in the market last week.