Three journalists Mr Singson has said he was Mr Estrada's bagman, passing him millions of dollars in bribes from operators of an illegal lottery game called jueteng. Jinggoy, who has been described as a regional collector of pay-offs, has been subpoenaed to testify later in the trial. Ms Lim said on the first occasion the money was wrapped in old magazines in Jinggoy Estrada's office. In February, she said he handed the cash to her personally in a shopping bag, and the following month he gave her a cheque with his picture on it. Security is tight around the Senate building Ms Lim testified the money she collected was to be funnelled to the president.
Senators expect the trial to last into the new year.
The proceedings are expected to be colourful, reflecting the character of the president himself, who acknowledges children by at least three actresses. Prosecutors have said they will call Mr Estrada's wife and up to five mistresses to give evidence, something defence lawyers wish to stop. Howard's refugee gamble paying off Links to more Asia-Pacific stories are at the foot of the page.