Philippines' Arroyo visits jailed Estrada

Philippine President Ms Gloria Macapagal Arroyo met her detained predecessor, Mr Joseph Estrada, today.

Philippine President Ms Gloria Macapagal Arroyo met her detained predecessor, Mr Joseph Estrada, today.

The meeting comes just three days after security forces stopped his supporters storming the presidential palace.

President Arroyo declared a state of rebellion - two constitutional steps short of martial law - on Tuesday after thousands of Estrada supporters tried to force their way into the Malacanang presidential palace.

Four people were killed in clashes between the protesters and security forces.

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Ms Arroyo met Mr Estrada for about 30 minutes after flying by helicopter from Malacanang to a maximum security detention centre where he is being held, about 50 kilometres south of Manila.

Presidential spokesman Mr Rigoberto Tiglao said Ms Arroyo wanted to check on Mr Estrada's well-being and the amenities available to him.

He said Mr Estrada raised the possibility of being moved to house arrest but said there were no formal negotiations.

"The president thought she might as well see for herself the condition of Mr Estrada. It was a very friendly, cordial meeting," Mr Tiglao told reporters.

Mr Tiglao said Mr Estrada had asked for some changes to the small, spartan house with barred windows in which he is being held.