Update on Philippines. posted by Richard Seymour

A hundred leftwing protesters barged into the Philippine congress today to protest at the charging of five legislators for plotting to overthrow the presidency of Gloria Arroyo, whose hold on power otherwise appeared to be strengthening.

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Shouting "No to martial law" and displaying anti-Arroyo placards, they ran past guards and entered the lobby, but other guards quickly shut the main door to the hall.

John Aglionby, the Guardian's correspondent in Manila, said Ms Arroyo appeared to be safe for now.

"The realisation is sinking in that the president is unlikely to be toppled any time soon," he said, "even though many elements in the military are wavering in their support and opposition among civil society groups is mounting all the time."