Filipino demonstrators opposing the government of Philippine President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo push back anti-riot police during a rally in Manila June 11, 2005. Hundreds of anti-riot teams fanned out across the capital on Saturday as a church-organised protest began calling for Arroyo to resign over corruption allegations. (yahoo photo)

Beijing, June 11 -- The Philippines has put an estimated 6,000 troops on alert for Sunday's Independence Day festivities, fearing anti-government demonstrations.

    The alert follows a week of political tension in the Southeast Asian nation following renewed allegations that President Gloria Arroyo cheated in last year's election.

    The Philippines s Armed Forces said Saturday that marines had set up checkpoints along all major roads leading to the capital, where protestors were expected to demonstrate against Arroyo's administration.

    Military spokesman Colonel Buenaventura Pascal says it's just a security precaution and most of the troops will be on stand-by.

    The move has been seen by many as an attempt to defuse tension on the streets.

    Opposition groups have mounted a nationwide campaign releasing tapes of telephone conversations showing Arroyo urging an independent election commissioner to ensure she won the vote.

    The allegations have yet to be proven and Arroyo is resisting calls for her resignation.

    (Source: CRIENGLISH.com)