Philippine police on alert while Arroyo on trip

Philippine police went on full alert today after President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo proceeded with a European trip – which includes a visit to Britain - despite a failed attempt by a group of soldiers and civilian backers to trigger a “people power” revolt against her.

National police director general Avelino Razon said forces were on guard for other possible threats by renegade soldiers after elite government forces quelled an attempt by rebel military officers to force the ousting of Arroyo on Thursday.

Military troops have been on alert in the bustling capital since the rebel soldiers took over Manila’s five-star Peninsula Hotel and called for a public revolt.

The uprising was led by Antonio Trillanes, a former navy officer who was elected to the Senate in May, and Brigadier General Danilo Lim, backed by dozens of armed soldiers and civilian sympathisers who included former Vice President Teofisto Guingona and two Catholic bishops.

They were arrested and charged with rebellion after the uprising was crushed.

Arroyo survived three previous coup attempts and three opposition impeachment bids over alleged corruption and human rights abuses during her seven tumultuous years in power.

Arroyo left late last night for Europe, where she will make a state visit to Spain. She will also travel to France and Britain.

“It is with complete confidence that I will travel to Europe to advance our national interests in meeting with the business and government leaders in Spain and England,” she said in a prepared statement, adding that the country was calm and secure and the rule of law had prevailed.