Thursday, February 28, 2008 (Philippines)

ANGRY TOO SOON. The presence of children in last Monday’s rallies, such as this one on Colon St., prompted the Cebu City police chief to arrange for a meeting where he’ll ask protest organizers to keep the children at home. (Sun.Star Photo/Amper Campaña) MANILA—Two civic groups filed a complaint of plunder and corruption yesterday against President Arroyo, amid growing calls for her to resign after her husband was implicated in a large-scale bribery scandal. Led by former Senate President Jovito Salonga, the nationalist groups Kilosbayan and Bantay Katarungan accused Arroyo of violating ethical standards when she—by her own admission in a radio interview—signed a US$329-million contract with ZTE Corp. despite being warned of anomalies in the deal the night before. The complaint was filed at the Office of the Ombudsman. Investigators may file charges in court if there is enough evidence. [full story]