FM to Habib: More forceful means to quell disorder

PRESIDENT MARCOS yesterday warned he will take “more forceful methods” if the Opposition pushes through with its planned general strike.

Mr. Marcos made the statement as he assured two foreign envoys in separate meetings he is still in control of country. Outside of meeting room, meanwhile, some 100 were rushing at the Palace grounds stage for the President’s inaugural ceremony on Tuesday, Feb. 25.

In a second meeting with U.S. envoy Philip Habib in Malacanang yesterday morning, Mr. Marcos stressed that although he has promised a policy of “maximum tolerance” towards the planned mass protest actions by the Opposition and other anti-government forces, “the moment the Opposition touches any of the public officials or start a ‘welga ng bayan’” he will be constrained to take “more forceful measures.”

Mr. Marcos likewise objected to the Opposition’s plan to set up a provisional government. He said he will definitely not allow a provisional government “in the Philippines or anywhere else.”