Philippine lawmaker surrenders, posts bail after court orders his arrest

The court barred Estrada from leaving the country while facing the first of two corruption-related charges in relation to the flood control project anomalies.

Another warrant for his arrest for the second charge, which is non-bailable, is expected to be issued by the court soon, top anti-corruption prosecutor Jesus Crispin Remulla said.

Estrada, 63, has strongly denied allegations mainly by a former government public works engineer that he received more than 570 million pesos (US$9.3 million) in kickbacks.

“I intend to avail myself of every lawful means to defend myself and clear my name,” Estrada said.