Former Philippine President Joseph Estrada has been released after spending over six years under house arrest on charges of embezzling about $80m (�42m) while in power.

His official pardon by current President Gloria Arroyo comes just six weeks after he was handed a life sentence following his long trial.

Hundreds of supporters of Estrada, popularly known by his nickname Erap, waved banners as he left his luxury villa by car to travel to his home district of San Juan.

In a statement read out by his lawyer, who was also accused of corruption, Estrada thanked Mrs Arroyo and expressed his support for her.

The former film star said he was aware of the "agonising times and tough choices that Mrs Arroyo has had to wade through" and said he now wants to live the life of a "plain citizen".

Mrs Arroyo said one of the reasons for Estrada's pardon was the ill health of his 102-year-old mother, whom he visted shortly after his release.

President Arroyo said she hoped the pardon would end political divisions, but critics say the move was an attempt to increase public support in the face of calls for her resignation.