Authorities on alert for November 29 power grab plot follow-through this month

By Ronron
January 13, 2008

Government security forces are on alert for a possible follow-through this month of the attempted power grab plot last November 29, 2007 in Makati City.

Philippine National Police (PNP) spokesman Sr. Supt. Nicanor Bartolome said in a radio interview Sunday that it is automatic on the part of the government to prepare for possible follow-through episodes of previous destabilization activities, especially if a mass action is forthcoming.

“If we have these activities (mass actions), people could take advantage of the situation. They (destabilizers) could take part in the activities for the day,” Bartolome said, referring to January 22 when Filipinos are expected to commemorate the EDSA II incident in 2001 that catapulted Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to the presidency over Joseph Estrada.

In a separate interview by phone, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief of staff Gen. Hermogenes Esperon, Jr. said that while they still do not have a complete picture of the alleged plot, he assured that his troops are prepared for any eventuality.

“That is still subject for verification… But what is important is we are ready,” he said.

Without citing which sector could the alleged destabilizers come from, Esperon displayed confidence that they will not be getting any support anymore.

“Last November 29, didn’t they look funny? Was that okay?” the military chief said, apparently pointing out the lack of support of those who marched to Ayala Avenue and took over the Manila Peninsula Hotel in Makati City to call for the downfall of Arroyo.

The so-called November 29 Manila Pen siege was led by Senator Antonio Trillanes, IV, one of the core leaders of the Magdalo Group, and Army Brig. Gen. Danilo Lim.

In February 2006, the group of Lim was also accused of plotting a coup d’ etat to be launched when people will take the streets to commemorate the EDSA 1 People Power Revolution that ended the dictatorial rule of Ferdinand Marcos in 1986 in favor of Corazon Aquino.

Bartolome said that as they continue to monitor any destabilization plots against the Arroyo administration, the PNP is also appealing to alleged destabilizers to quit from their plans.

“All our communities have a common aspiration, and that is to have a peaceful and quiet environment, without any apprehension about this kind of activities (destabilization), which will make the country’s situation worse. So, hopefully, for the year 2008, nothing will happen,” Bartolome said./DMS