Oreta on impeachment dance: So sorry

BINMALEY, Pangasinan – Many Filipinos still remember her as the Senate’s "dancing queen" for the jig she made during the 2001 impeachment trial of then President Joseph Estrada, when she and her colleagues voted not to have a controversial "second envelope" opened.

Now that she is back to again seek election to the Senate this May under the administration Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats coalition, Tessie Aquino-Oreta said she has paid the consequences for her dancing act.

She also seeks the forgiveness and understanding of "millions of Filipinos. "I’ve asked forgiveness from those whom I’ve hurt," she told local reporters Saturday when Team Unity arrived for campaign sorties here.

"I ask for understanding, because sometimes you get carried away also. I have buried that already in memories," she added.

Oreta also said she is hoping that her niece, popular television host/actress Kris Aquino, will support her senatorial bid.

"I guess so, she’s family, so I think there are no misunderstandings," Oreta said.

Meanwhile, Oreta said the issue of political dynasties is a matter for the people to decide, as they are the ones who will vote come the elections.

She is not also worried about possible loss of votes even as another family member, opposition senatorial candidate Benigno "Noynoy" Aquino III, Kris’ brother, is also running.

She said she wants to see the end of the politics of hate, as she asked the people to give unity a chance so the country can move forward.