Tuesday, February 26, 2008 (Philippines)

MILITARY SHOW OF FORCE, not by tanks and guns, but by marching to show support to their commander-in-chief, President Arroyo. (AP Photo) MANILA – Military and police generals pledged their support for embattled President Arroyo yesterday as a deepening corruption scandal unleashed a fresh wave of nationwide protests on the anniversary of the People Power revolt. National police chief Avelino Razon imposed a week-long ban on carrying guns in public as a “preventive measure” to ensure order amid coup rumors. Guns are normally allowed on the streets with permits. Razon and military chief Gen. Hermogenes Esperon ruled out a repeat of the iconic 1986 uprising, when hundreds of thousands of unarmed protesters faced off against tanks and troops to end Ferdinand Marcos’ 20-year rule. [full story]