Activists in the Philippines used International Human Rights Day to show their opposition to martial law in the south after the Maguindanao massacre.

The government imposed martial law after a gang armed with guns and machetes killed 57 people.

Officials say the measure is in response to a suspected rebellion plot by the Ampatuan clan linked to the slaughter.

Rights campaigners say the clan also has links to President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo and the imposition of martial law is an echo of the old days under dictator Ferdinand Marcos.

[Marie Hilao-Enriquez, Chairperson of Karapatan (Human Rights)]:
“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."

[Emmi de Jesus, Vice Chairperson of Gabriela Womens Rights Group]:
"Martial law declaration as a solution to give justice to the victims of the massacre will just cover up the murder cases against the Ampatuans."

[Maureen Catabian, Nun, Good Shepherd Sisters]:
"People are getting killed and then you answer by curtailing the rights of the people."

The protestors also blame Arroyo's government for arming civilian volunteer groups in Maguindanao which some fear may have led to the massacre.

The victims were political rivals with whom the Ampatuan clan was involved in a feud, and journalists accompanying them in a convoy.

The Philippines constitution says that martial law and suspension of civil rights can't go on for longer than 60 days.

The order can be extended by a majority vote in Congress which is controlled by the president's allies.

Some opposition lawmakers have turned to the Supreme Court in the hope of lifting the restrictions.