Cops, protesters clash near US Embassy

MANILA, Philippines – Policemen and left-wing activists clashed near the US Embassy in Manila on Friday.

The protesters figured in a scuffle with riot police, who blocked the corner of Mabini and United Nations avenues to prevent them from approaching the embassy.

The group, comprising members of Bayan; Akap Bata; Health Alliance for Democracy; Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas; Gabriela; and Kadamay, marched towards the embassy to protest the end of quantitative restrictions on rice under the World Trade Organization (WTO).

The restrictions are scheduled to end on Saturday, which may affect local agriculture as imported rice is expected to flood local markets.

The groups believe that the failure of the government to extend the restrictions is proof that the Philippines should pull out from the WTO. -- Report from RG Cruz, ABS-CBN News