Estrada's cronies and mistresses leaving 'like bats out of hell'

They claim the President is also planning his escape, although Mr Estrada's spokesmen deny this.

Joey Rufino, national executive director of the opposition Lakas party, says: "The exodus of his mistresses and friends is a sign that Mr Estrada is now preparing for an exit scenario."

But presidential adviser Angelito Banayo says: "The democracy that we have must be protected at all costs. We submitted ourselves to the process and we are ready to face whatever the verdict of that process is.

"Does he have any choice but to face the music if and when he is convicted?"

Meanwhile, the nation's obsession with the impeachment trial has apparently reduced crime.

Senator Gregorio Honasan, a judge on the trial, says women - the usual victims of street crime - are glued to their TV sets instead of being out in public.