Thousands protest against constitutional changes in Philippines

Jun 10, 2009, 7:40 GMT

   Manila - Thousands of protestors marched to the financial district in the Philippine capital Wednesday to denounce efforts to amend the country's constitution.

   The demonstrators converged on Ayala Avenue in Makati City, where about 5,000 police officers were deployed to guard the rally.

   Organizers said up to 30,000 people were expected to attend the rally against charter change, popularly called 'cha-cha' in the Philippines.

   'I know a lot of people are very angry now, and this is the time for indignation,' said Leah Navarro, a convener of the Black and White Movement, one of the organizers.

   'Let us all be counted and show our support against cha-cha,' she said.

   Last week, the House of Representatives passed a resolution calling for the chamber to be turned into a constituent assembly to draft amendments to the 1987 constitution.

   The resolution ignored opposition by the Senate to moves to amend the constitution. Senators have warned they would challenge the House in the Supreme Court if it continues with its steps.

   Critics have warned that the charter-change efforts could be aimed at postponing presidential and national elections in May 2010, allowing President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo to cling to power.

   Arroyo has vowed that the elections would go ahead next year despite moves by her allies to amend the constitution.