Philippine congress dismisses Arroyo impeachment charges

Philippine legislators, groggy from a marathon debate session, today threw out all three impeachment charges against President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo - despite warnings the move could worsen her political crisis and spark a new “people power” revolt.

The 236-seat House of Representatives – overwhelmingly dominated by pro-Arroyo legislators – voted to uphold the House justice committee’s decision to reject the complaints alleging Arroyo rigged last year’s election, was involved in corruption and condoned human rights violations.