Hundreds of journalists, human rights activists, lawyers and students marched in downtown Manila demanding justice for the 57 victims, including 30 journalists.

Blocking traffic and carrying mock coffins, the protesters claim President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo is creating a climate where perpetrators believe they would not be held responsible for the brutal crimes.

The secretary general of the New Patriotic Alliance, an activist group, demanded justice from the government.

[Renato Reyes, Secretary General, New Patriotic Alliance]:
"We are protesting against impunity and we are protesting in demanding justice for the victims of the Ampatuan massacre and all other human rights abuses under the Arroyo regime. Unless we do such moves, we do not think the Arroyo regime has what it takes to really address the big problems of impunity and justice in our country."

Town mayor Andal Ampatuan, Jr. has been arrested as the main suspect in the massacre, but has denied the allegations.

On Friday, the justice department moved to stop eight other Ampatuan family members from leaving the country.

Activists joining Monday's march said the Ampatuan's reigning influence in the southern provinces would pose serious obstacles to seeing justice for the victims, as witnesses will be afraid to come forward and public officials may receive threats.