Coup concern mounts as 'tanks enter palace'

Four tanks have reportedly entered the Philippine presidential palace as fears of a coup grip the country.

President Joseph Estrada has suffered a series of defections from the military and his cabinet as he tries to call a snap election to replace him in May.

Armoured carriers have been seen moving toward the palace, Malacanang.

It is not clear whether they have been dispatched by Mr Estrada's foes or by security forces trying to protect him.

After losing many of his remaining allies, Mr Estrada seems unwilling to hand power to Vice President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.

Military chief General Angelo Reyes has abandoned the president's camp and appeared before some 150,000 anti-Estrada demonstrators crowding a monument to the 1986 revolt that ousted the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos.

General Reyes says Mr Estrada and his family should be allowed to exit with dignity.

He added: "Let us not be vindictive."