A presidential spokesman said Thursday's meeting only concerned Mr. Estrada's treatment in prison and was not related to a crackdown on his supporters who attacked the presidential palace Tuesday, or to Mr. Estrada's legal problems. Meanwhile, the Philippines Supreme Court will hold a hearing today to consider whether to halt the government crackdown, while police continue their search for several prominent opposition figures. The court will hear a legal challenge to the state of rebellion declared by Ms. Arroyo earlier this week. The declaration allows the government to detain people without an arrest warrant.
Opponents say it is unconstitutional.
A spokesperson for Ms. Arroyo says the declaration could be lifted as early as Monday. Ms. Arroyo issued the declaration, after supporters of Mr. Estrada attempted to storm the presidential palace in Manila, demanding his release. At least four people were killed in the ensuing violence. President Arroyo has alleged the violence was part of a plot by supporters of Mr. Estrada to overthrow her. Mr. Estrada is in a Manila prison, waiting trial on charges that he pocketed millions of dollars in bribes during his presidency.