A plot to overthrow President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo foiled

A new plot to overthrow President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo was allegedly foiled on 3 July 2008. Five individuals, including a high profile Philippine lawmaker, were arrested after they reportedly tried to blackmail a Japanese businessman for between US$4-10 million to finance the coup. The businessman claimed that the accused threatened to kill two Filipinos and put the blame on him. Arroyo stated that she will continue with her scheduled activities despite this development. The arrested individuals, who also include three former soldiers and a military general, have all been linked to previous coup attempts since 1989.