President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo declared the country under a state of emergency Feb. 24, adding she has ordered the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police to arrest all individuals suspected to have participated in the alleged power grab.

The order also includes take over of facilities, including the media, if needed.

Meanwhile, Presidential Chief of Staff Mike Defensor said that all permits to rally have been revoked.

In the meantime, there are already attempts to disperse the rally at Edsa Shrine but negotiations with the protesters headed by former vice president Teofisto Guingona are on going.  Bulatlat

© 2006 Bulatlat ■  Alipato Publications

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