Arroyo Resists Calls to Step Down

Philippine President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo remained defiant today in the face of growing calls for her resignation by civic groups, religious figures, business leaders, former presidents and the public.

Friday saw a frenetic whirl of press conferences, news bulletins and rumors as one-third of her Cabinet resigned and thousands of demonstrators called for her to step down over an election scandal.

The U.S.-trained economist has struggled to regain the offensive by promising to name a new cabinet and repeating an offer to undergo an impeachment process in Congress, which her party controls. Friday, the remaining two-thirds of her Cabinet held a news conference to support her.

Referring to her critics, Arroyo said in a hastily arranged radio address Friday: “I say that their actions cause deep and grievous harm to the nation because they undermine our democratic principles and the very foundation of our constitution.”

The Roman Catholic Church and the military -- two powerful players that helped oust President Ferdinand Marcos in the 1986 “people power” revolt and President Joseph Estrada in 2001 -- have kept relatively quiet. But some analysts said they expected a conference of bishops to issue a statement, perhaps this afternoon, urging Arroyo to bow out for the good of the nation.

Furthermore, relative to past statements by the military that it fully supported the nation’s duly elected president, the armed forces have softened their stance recently, saying only that they were committed to following the law.

“Commanders should act swiftly against any behavior that challenges or breaks away from the chain of command,” military chief of staff Gen. Efren Abu said in a statement.

Police in the capital have been on high alert. While streams of cars blared horns Friday throughout Manila in support of her resignation, daily protests in the financial district have generally involved fewer than 5,000 people. This is a fraction of the numbers seen in past popular revolts.

“I think the charges against her first need to be proven,” said Josie Mangalubnan, 26, a meat vendor in Tondo, one of Manila’s poorest districts, who voted for Arroyo. “There’s been no trial. How can we say she’s guilty?”

The scandal broke when an audiotape aired in which Arroyo was apparently speaking to an election official during vote counting. This sparked allegations that her victory was rigged. Family members are also accused of taking money from illegal gambling interests. The president apologized last week for a “lapse of judgment” but continues to deny election fraud.

A key question, analysts said, is who would replace her if she ultimately bowed to the pressure.

One scenario would see Vice President Noli de Castro assume power on an interim basis until a new election was called. He’s reportedly backed by former President Corazon Aquino, who urged Arroyo on Friday to make the “ultimate sacrifice” and resign.

Some question Castro’s ability to lead, however, and whether he too could someday be tainted by corruption allegations.

Analysts said they had to admire Arroyo for hanging in there despite all the pressure.

“I don’t know if she’s living in a different world, but she’s proved she’s made of harder stuff than Estrada,” said Ellen Tordesillas, a political analyst and newspaper columnist.

But they also said they hoped the situation would be resolved relatively quickly.

“This is like watching a shipwreck,” said Nelson Navario, a political analyst and professor. “The boat is sinking, but everyone’s still dancing on deck.”

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Times staff writer Magnier reported from Beijing and special correspondent Vanji from Manila.