Calm returns to Manila streets after riot
Manila residents awoke under a ‘‘state of rebellion’’ today, more stunned than reassured after Philippines police quelled riots that left at least six dead.
As relative calm returned to the capital’s always-chaotic streets, residents expressed fear of more violence and shock at the bloodshed as supporters of ousted President Joseph Estrada clashed with security forces. President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo declared a ‘‘state of rebellion’’ giving police powers to arrest without warrant.
‘‘That was scary,’’ said Archie Beltran, a 31-year-old hairdresser who followed the protests on television along with his clients and most other Manila residents. ‘‘I hope we don’t have to see that again. Those were real riots.’’
He said Filipinos, who take pride in the peacefulness of rebellions that overthrew late dictator Ferdinand Marcos in 1986 and Estrada earlier this year, may be reconsidering the possibility of peaceful revolution.
Morning shoppers and commuters watched storefront television sets showing highlights of the bloody clashes between Estrada backers and security forces outside the presidential palace.
Newspapers carried large headlines relaying the declaration of a ‘‘state of rebellion’’ that gave Arroyo’s government extra powers.
Police fired warning shots, water cannons and tear gas against rioters armed with clubs and stones. Five civilians and one policeman were killed and more than 100 others injured.
‘‘These mass demonstrations are a dangerous precedent,’’ said Willy Tobias, a 42-year-old engineer on his way to work. ‘‘The best thing that could happen is that Filipinos realise that change doesn’t come overnight.’’
But the images the protests etched on the minds of Manila residents, he said, may stir up further resentment.
Among the most gripping was that of a lone policeman, sitting on a highway and gripping a pistol as hundreds of Estrada protesters circled him and started throwing rocks and large chunks of concrete. He fired into the crowd, injuring at least one, until he ran out of bullets.
As he raised his hands in surrender, the crowds jumped him and beat him with rocks, clubs and a stolen riot shield. Police say the policemen is in a hospital with several broken bones and other serious injuries.
