Steps to the Slammer

A chronology of the events leading to the arrest of Estrada.

Oct. 9, 2000

Ilocos Sur Gov. Luis Singson testifies that he gave longtime gambling buddy Joseph Estrada more than $8 million in payoffs from illegal gambling and $2.7 million from tobacco taxes.

Oct. 18

Opposition groups file impeachment complaint against Estrada before House of Representatives.

Dec. 7

Senate impeachment trial begins, with the prosecution showing a check signed ``Jose Velarde,'' an alias Estrada alleged used for his hidden bank accounts. The check was reportedly used to buy a mansion for a mistress.

Dec. 22

A senior vice president of a bank testifies that she saw Estrada sign "Jose Velarde" on bank documents.

Dec. 30

Five synchronized bomb attacks kill 22 people in Manila, days before the trial is to resume.

Jan. 16

Senators vote 11-10 to keep key bank documents secret, angering prosecutors and causing Senate President Aquilino Pimentel to quit in protest.

Jan. 17

Impeachment trial collapses. Thousands of Filipinos take to the streets.

Jan. 19

AFP chief Angelo Reyes, Defense Secretary Orlando Mercado and other top officials resign, join anti-Estrada protesters.

Jan. 20

About 75,000 protesters march close to the presidential palace, demanding Estrada quit. Estrada leaves; Arroyo sworn in.

Jan. 20

Joseph Ejercito Estrada is toppled by a peaceful mass uprising called People Power II.

Mar. 2

The Supreme Court rules against Estrada, throwing out his claim that he never resigned and should be immune from criminal prosecution.

Mar. 19

Estrada appeals the decision.

April 3

The Supreme Court rejects the appeal, reaffirms decision that strips him of immunity.

April 4

Ombudsman submits formal charge. Estrada is indicted on accusations that he received $82 million in kickbacks and payoffs.

April 10

Second try to overturn Supreme Court ruling fails.

April 16

Estrada turns himself in and posts bond after an anti-graft court issues an arrest warrant on two charges.

April 25

Estrada arrested after the Sandiganbayan issues warrant for non-bailable plunder charge. #