Philippines’ Arroyo faces impeachment
Ms Arroyo made no direct reference to the scandal during her annual state of the nation address hours later, but urged Congress to undertake quick constitutional changes toward a more stable form of government.
Changing to a parliamentary system where lawmakers can vote out a sitting government theoretically could cut Ms Arroyo's term short since a successful referendum on the changes likely would be followed by fresh elections.
But it would provide a somewhat graceful way out of a mess that has paralysed her government with nearly five years left in office.
The impeachment complaint claims Arroyo "cheated and lied" to obtain and hold power. "By so flouting justice and the rule of law, she has committed an unforgivable outrage against the Filipino people," the complaint says. Her aides have moved to block it on a legal technicality.
Ms Arroyo has denied manipulating the May 2004 ballot by discussing vote counting with an election official before she was declared the winner. She said she's ready to face an impeachment trial to clear her name and has announced a "truth commission" will also probe the allegations against her.
Left-wing lawmakers have warned of a "people power" revolt the type of street demonstrations that ousted President Joseph Estrada in 2001 if pro-Arroyo lawmakers, who have a strong majority in the House of Representatives, kill or weaken the complaint.
Referring indirectly to the "people power" revolts and a constant rash of coup attempts and take-over rumours, Arroyo said that her nation has become too polarised to make the changes it needs to meet the challenges of the 21st century.
"The system clearly needs fundamental change and the sooner, the better," Ms Arroyo said.
"Ours is a country divided. One is a Philippines whose economy is now poised for takeoff. The other ... has become a hindrance to progress."
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