Philippine police went on full alert today after President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo proceeded with a European trip – which includes a visit to Britain - despite a failed attempt by a group of soldiers and civilian backers to trigger a “people power” revolt against her.

Military officers defied a deadline to surrender after storming out of their coup trial in the Philippines capital today, taking over a luxury hotel and demanding that President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo resign.

FOUR US Marines refused to answer rape charges against them yesterday in the Philippines, prompting the judge to enter a not guilty plea for them in a case that has stirred emotions about the US military presence in the ex-American colony.