MANILA, Philippines (AP) — Philippine President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo has declared a state of emergency in two southern provinces after gunmen killed at least 24 people in an attack on an election caravan.
Arroyo spokesman Serge Remonde says Tuesday's order will enable the military and police to restore order and prevent lawless violence. The measures include checkpoints and random searches by the authorities, but details have not yet been released.
Officials have promised to make arrests in the country's worst election massacre.
Officials are still trying to get the exact number of family members, political supporters and journalists who were intercepted by about 100 gunmen Monday in an attack that left at least 24 dead.
