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Protesters demand Arroyo resignation
Tens of thousands of people demanded the resignation of Philippine President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo at a large protest rally in Manila's financial district today.
Ms Arroyo, who is battling allegations of corruption, has been in office for seven years and is due to finish her term in 2010, but political analysts said the turnout could force her supporters in the cabinet and military to rethink their position.
Independent observers said between 30,000 to 50,000 people gathered in the Makati business district in an outpouring of placards, prayers and chants. Analysts said the turnout was larger than expected.
Although deeply unpopular, Ms Arroyo's position looks secure, however, because she has the support of the military, and there is no single figure for the opposition to rally around.
Around one million people took to the streets to overthrow dictator Ferdinand Marcos in 1986 and up to half a million helped oust Joseph Estrada in 2001 in a military-backed revolt. Many Filipinos are cynical about what a third revolt will bring.
Ms Arroyo has survived three impeachment bids over allegations of corruption and vote fraud and at least three attempted coups.
