Hundreds of protesters from various rights groups marched in downtown Manila, denouncing martial law. The government imposed martial law in Maguindanao Province on December 4th after a pre-election massacre there left about 60 dead.

Some question President Arroyo’s declaration of martial law, and believe that it can lead to an abuse of power.

[Maureen Catabian, Good Shepherd Sisters]:
"People are getting killed, and then you answer by again curtailing the rights of the people. Because this is like controlling, controlling the people from speaking out the truth.”

Since martial law was imposed, security forces have arrested dozens of civilians linked to last month’s massacre and who are suspected of rebellion.

Some Filipinos say this is a reminder of martial law under former president Ferdinand Marcos when human rights violations were committed.

[Marie Hilao-Enriquez, Chairperson, Karapatan]:
"Illegal arrests are being committed or perpetrated by state security forces there right now. And that is one of the indicators that can lead to abuse of power, which we have seen during Marcos's martial law."

Government officials began a joint session on Wednesday to review President Arroyo's decision to impose martial law. The constitution says martial law and the suspension of civil rights cannot exceed 60 days. But the order may be extended by a majority vote in Congress.

Some members of the opposition have approached the Supreme Court, seeking to stop the martial law order.