Manila, Philippines– Former President and Manila Mayor Joseph ‘Erap’ Estrada has changed his mind, finally acknowledging defeat to Isko Moreno.
In a statement, Estrada said the people of Manila have spoken.
Moreno won with 357,925 votes while Estrada received 210,605 votes.
Estrada said he will prepare for a smooth transition of the city government.
“I congratulate the new mayor and I wish him all the best for the good of the people of Manila,” he said.
The Manila mayor also thanked those who have made his 50-year stint in politics memorable and colorful.
Estrada said he encourages his supporters to rally behind the new Manila leadership.
The Ejercito-Estrada family also failed to secure other elective posts. His sons JV Ejercito and Jinggoy Estrada are out of the winning circle in the Senatorial race.
His grand daughter Janella Estrada failed to win San Juan City’s top post where Estrada first served as city mayor in 1969.
“By June 30, my 50 years in politics and public service will come to an end with sterling colors of honesty and genuine concerns for the poor,” he said in a statement.
“I wish to thank all those who stood by me for the last 5 decades of my political life,” he added.
