| PGMA's Statement on the lifting of Proclamation 1017 |
| Kalayaan Press Briefing Room, Malacanang (03 March 2006 ) |
| I was elected to fix our
economy, invest in the people and eliminate the crushing burden of poverty. My plan is
working and the economy has been turned around. Evidence of this is a strong peso, more
foreign investments and increased collection of taxes to help pay for services like
education, healthcare and infrastructure. Against the backdrop of economic progress, elements within our society decided to launch an unsuccessful overthrow our government. A week ago today an alliance of malicious destabilizers and misguided military intriguers set about to take advantage of the emotional swirl of our nation's EDSA celebration. Their intention was no less than the sabotage of our constitution and to bring down the legal government of the Philippines. I made the judgment at the time that this convergence of forces posed a clear and present danger to the Republic. As commander in chief of the armed forces and within the power granted me by the constitution, I took steps to insure the stability of the people and the nation. My concerns were subsequently born out: we have arrested scores of destabilizers and several military personnel. We have documented case-by-case and in specific detail the transgressions for which they now stand accused. Our justice system will see to their fair trial. The truth will come out. And as you saw play out last Sunday night, the struggle continued through the weekend. As such, I kept in place the SOE until I was sure the nation was safe and sound. Throughout this ordeal, I have been keenly aware of the anxiety that the state of emergency created within many segments of society. It was not an action I took lightly, but I felt to much was at stake to do anything less. I believe my actions strengthened and protected our civil liberties and free press, and maintained the economic gains we have fought so hard to secure. Today, a week later, I am happy to report that the cabal is broken and it is time to get back to the real business of governing. I am confident that order has been restored. Therefore, with the power vested in me by our constitution, I declare, that effective immediately, the state of emergency is no longer in affect. I want to thank our military men and women who withstood the political gamesmanship and remained true to their conscience and to the nation they are sworn to protect. They bear many burdens on our behalf. I have asked Defense Secretary Cruz to lead a bottom-up review to get the views of our soldiers in the field and make sure reform of the military continues on its course toward modernization and justice. I want to thank our many local and national government leaders who stood by the side of democracy. And I cannot say enough about the wisdom of our people who understand that the best way to a bright future is through hard work, not taking to the streets. It is essential now that our political opponents and opportunists stop undermining our economy at home and embarrassing the nation abroad with their cheap political antics. For the love of nation, it is time to make things work and get things done. Let us please all work for the common good. Our nation is stronger for dealing quickly and decisively with this issue. I will not stand for this kind of adventurism at any time. And I will act with the same force of will and determination again and again if our opponents insist on inflicting instability on the nation and hurting our economy. In the meantime, we are blessed to live in a vibrant democracy that is strong, stable and on the move. |