The Philippines is in a state of "rebellion" after opposition politicians tried to oust President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, a government spokesman said today.
"We are in a state of rebellion...these are deliberate moves to topple a government," spokesman Rigoberto Tiglao told local radio.
Thousands of supporters of former leader Mr Joseph Estrada marched on the presidential palace early today, demanding Ms Arroyo step aside.
Two policemen and a protester were killed as the Estrada supporters were driven back by volleys of gunshots into the air by police and elite presidential guards.
Government and military officials later said they were investigating sedition charges against key opposition politicians for inciting the protesters with speeches made since Mr Estrada's arrest on corruption charges last week.
The opposition figures included Estrada allies Mr Juan Ponce Enrile, Ms Miriam Defensor Santiagio and Mr Gregorio Honasan - all senators seeking re-election on May 14th when Arroyo faces her first electoral test since replacing Estrada in January.
"What is sad here is we are preparing for a democratic exercise but there is a group who wants to create trouble right away," Mr Tiglao said.