Marcos statue blasted

THE biggest statue that late Philippine dictator Ferdinand Marcos built to immortalise himself was blown up yesterday.

Police Superintendent Elpidio Gabriel said no one was hurt in the explosion that occurred around 1.40am in a remote area of Benguet province, about 124 miles north of Manila. It was not immediately clear who was behind the explosion, but suspects included left-wing rebels, tribal activists and even treasure hunters, officials said.

"Since there were no injuries as a result of the bombing, the probable charge would be malicious mischief resulting to damage to public property," said Tuba police official Rasildo Acosta.