![Police say they are still looking for some of the soldiers who managed to escape [AFP]](http://mwcnews.net/images/stories/Asia/A/1/2/3/4/5/6/Manila-crackdown.jpg "Police say they are still looking for some of the soldiers who managed to escape [AFP]") |
| Police say they are still looking for some of the soldiers who managed to escape [AFP] |
Police say they expect to make more arrests and are also bracing themselves for a protest against the president on Friday.
The rebels were holed-up in a luxury hotel in central Manila for six hours on Thursday, demanding Gloria Arroyo's resignation, but they surrendered when government troops fired shots and tear gas into the building.
Twenty-seven soldiers involved had earlier walked out of their courtroom trial where they were facing charges over another coup attempt four years ago.
Jury still out
While some Filipinos felt the government took excessive measures, others felt that Antonio Trillanes, a senator and leader of the officers, had been irresponsible in marching on the capital's streets with armed guards to commandeer the hotel.
Avelino Razon, the national police chief, said 101 people were arrested at the hotel and that more were being sought.
"We are pursuing the other groups that might try to continue to implement their plans," he said.
|
The capital and surrounding areas were put under a midnight-5am curfew to allow police to pursue follow-up arrests.
Razon said the curfew would not be imposed for a second night although police were still looking for some of the soldiers who managed to escape.
Police were also bracing themselves for an anti-Arroyo protest on Friday - a public holiday honouring a national hero.
The rally was organised by left-wing and other opposition groups before Thursday's events, and Razon expressed hope that it would turn out peacefully.
Arroyo, who has weathered at least three previous coup plots and three impeachment attempts, says her government is stable and the military loyal to her.
She planned to go ahead with a trip to Spain and Britain on Saturday,
Cerge Remonde, a presidential aide, said.
Tags: Manila