Philippine president to run for Congress in 2010

Arroyo says she'll run for the lower house - the first Philippine president to do so.

Manila: Philippine President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo says she'll run for Congress next year, opting to stay a political player after her term ends.

Arroyo is barred by the constitution from seeking a second term, and said Monday she'll step down following national elections in May at the end of nine tumultuous years.

She says she'll run for the lower house - the first Philippine president to do so.

Arroyo's lawyers have refused to speculate on her plans beyond running for the second congressional district in her home province of Pampanga, where her family and supporters dominate.