(POLITIKO) Former President Joseph Estrada’s presidency may have been short-lived, but the enduring bond of camaraderie and respect between the former leader and his Cabinet members endures.
Estrada recently got a sweet musical tribute from former officials of his administration on his birthday.
Estrada, who led the country from 1998 to 2001, turned 86 on April 19. The former Manila mayor marked the occasion with an intimate gathering of his loved ones, that turned into a nostalgic reunion of old friends.
At the event, former Cabinet members serenaded their former boss with their rendition of “Around The World” popularized by Frank Sinatra in a touching show of affection for the former leader. The group sang Sinatra song “When You’re Smiling” in honor of Estrada during the party.
Leading the musical tribute were former Finance Secretary Jose Pardo, Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma, former Budget Secretary and now Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno, and former Press Secretary Mike Toledo, who stood before the crowd and sang their hearts out.
Other former government officials such as former Energy Secretary Mario Tiaoqui, former Presidential Management Staff head Leonora de Jesus, former Presidential Legislative Liaison chief Jimmy Policarpio, and former Presidential adviser for social development and National Treasurer Leonor Briones, joined in the chorus of appreciation for Estrada.
A video of the musical tribute was obtained by Politiko.com.ph, capturing the reunion of Estrada and his former Cabinet members.
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