The Philippines declared a state of rebellion yesterday and began questioning opposition politicians on suspicion of inciting protests in which three people were killed and scores injured. Two policemen and a protester died during a night of violence in central Manila when tens of thousands of supporters of deposed President Joseph Estrada tried to break down the gates of the presidential palace. But calm had generally returned by yesterday evening with only small groups of Estrada supporters still on the streets. As police and soldiers dispersed Estrada's supporters, officials said a state of rebellion had been declared and there were plans to arrest at least four senior opposition figures. Declaration of a state of rebellion allows authorities to arrest suspects without a warrant and is the first of three steps a president can take to maintain law and order.
Subsequent steps are the suspension of habeas corpus and imposition of martial law.
Estrada ally and prominent politician Juan Ponce Enrile, meanwhile, surrendered at his home and was taken to police headquarters for questioning. Police said 103 protesters had been arrested and 36 policemen were hurt during the overnight violence. This story has been viewed 418 times. The Taipei Times. All rights reserved.