Filipino Gunmen Kidnap, Kill 21 Filing Election Papers

Government declares emergency rule in Maguindanao province

(NEWSER) - Another 11 bodies have been found in the mass grave where dozens were killed in election related slaughter in the Philippines. The death toll now stands at 57, including 24 women, Reuters reports. The government has imposed emergency rule on the southern province, sending in 500 soldiers, and disbanding a 200-member paramilitary force controlled by local officials. More»

Thousands flee as militia battles government troops

(NEWSER) - Some 10,000 people fled across the border from Myanmar into Thailand today to escape fighting between government troops and a splinter of the Democratic Karen Buddhist Army rebel group. At least three people have been killed and 10 others wounded in the battle, which broke out in the eastern border town of Myawaddy, according to Al Jazeera . More»

Powerful family blamed for murder of 57

(NEWSER) - A politician suspected of organizing the slaughter of 57 rival supporters and journalists this week has surrendered to authorities in the southern Philippines. Andal Ampatuan Jr., who was planning to run for a provincial governorship, was at the scene when gunmen stopped a convoy heading to register a rival candidate, forced people out of their vehicles, and killed them on a hillside, according to witnesses. More»

(NEWSER) - Violence, feuds and corruption charges have marred midterm elections in the Philippines. Three people were killed on election day yesterday, bringing the death toll for the three-month campaign to 110, the BBC reports. Opponents of President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo are trying to win enough seats in parliament to impeach her over allegations of electoral fraud dating back to 2004. More»

But show will go on, says concert promoter

(NEWSER) - Add the Philippines to the list of countries around Asia protesting Lady Gaga. About 200 young Christians in Manila marched against the pop star for the second straight day today, saying her music is offensive to Christians, especially her song "Judas," reports the AP . "She declared a distorted view toward Jesus Christ and for us Biblical Christians it is offensive," says a protest leader. "Her music and everything about her is different from what our values are." More»