Filipino President Arroyo drops out

Philippines President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo has said she will not run for president in 2004 because she is frustrated with political infighting and believes her candidacy would worsen the nation’s economic problems.

Ms Arroyo, 55, took office in January 2001 after mass protests forced predecessor Joseph Estrada to flee the presidential palace.

But she has faced a series of crises while trying to cobble together effective programs to help the sagging economy.

Ms Arroyo said she will devote her last 18 months in office to strengthening the economy, creating more jobs and encouraging business activity.