The Dice Player - profile of former president of the Philippines. From the Financial Times, November 13, 2000. It is clear that their goal is to bring down the legitimate government,'' she said on national television. As police and soldiers dispersed Estrada's supporters, government and military officials said a state of rebellion was being 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 rights and martial law.
Interior Secretary Jose Lina said earlier the government was reviewing speeches made by opposition politicians to Estrada's supporters after his arrest on corruption charges last week. Calm A Manila radio station reported early on Tuesday afternoon that a small group of Estrada supporters were on the streets but many more Arroyo supporters were gathering for a Labor Day show of support. During the night, Estrada's son Jinggoy said by telephone his father was appealing to his supporters, who were demanding Arroyo step down, to remain calm. Arroyo said two police had been killed and shops and homes had been looted. Several people were wounded during the hot, sultry night and morning after hours of skirmishes around the palace, which is defended by high walls on three sides, and a river on the fourth.