Articles from the author

Philippines President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has vowed to respond with force in dealing with the bandit group Abu Sayyaf as she raised the bounty for the capture of its members to P100 million ($2 million), after the group had abducted 20 people from a resort in the western island of Palawan.

The Justice Department has barred deposed President Joseph Estrada, his wife, Loi Ejercito, son, Jinggoy Estrada, and other former government officials from leaving the country.