Pro-Arroyo groups pray for peace, score interfaith rally

MANILA, Philippines - Groups supportive of President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo gathered at the Mabuhay Rotonda criticized on Friday the interfaith rally in Makati City being staged by critics of the administration. RJ Javellana, secretary general of the Kongreso ng Mamamayan, said the groups in Makati not only want to oust President Arroyo from power but also “destroy" democracy. Javellana also denounced the “lies" being peddled by Senate witness Rodolfo Lozada, whom his group described as a “self-confessed corrupt official." “It is apparent that groups holding (a) rally in Makati want nothing more than to topple not only the president but also democracy. (Those) groups are egging the public toward destabilization to accelerate their goal to grab power," Javellana said. As of posting time, the group at the Mabuhay Rotonda numbered about 300. Javellana said a total of 3,000 people are expected to participate in their vigil slated to begin later in the afternoon. Ruth Vasquez, president of Babae Ka, said they have been praying 2,000 "Hail Marys" since their group started to camp at the Mabuhay Rotonda on February 27. “We are doing this for the sake of peace and tranquility. Nagdarasal tayo para sa katahimikan ng bawat isa," Vazquez said. - Mark Ubalde and Mark Merueñas, GMANews.TV