Monday, February 27, 2006 (Philippines)

FEAR, HOPE. Marines take their position at the entrance to their headquarters at Fort Bonifacio. The Palace worried over the standoff, fearing it could lead to bloodshed. The private fear, of course, was that it could trigger a bigger protest ala Edsa 1. The opposition, on the other hand, apparently hoped to use the incident for toppling President Arroyo. (AP Photos) MANILA — A potential threat to President Arroyo’s leadership ended peacefully last night after disgruntled Marine officers agreed to end a five-hour standoff that started when their commander was relieved of duties. [full story]