Former Philippines President Corazon Aquino, who swept away a dictator with a “people power” revolt and sustained democracy by fighting off seven coup attempts in six years, died today, her son said. She was 76.

Philippines President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo declared a ‘‘state of rebellion’’ today after security forces firing warning shots, tear gas and water cannons clashed with stone-throwing backers of ousted leader Joseph Estrada.

The military in the Philippines say they are closing in on rebels who have kidnapped six-year-old Eiman Grant.

The British stepfather of a six-year-old girl kidnapped in the Philippines has dismissed claims that the snatch was organised by her mother.