Philippines: mutineers planned to seize president

Rear Adm. Rufino Lopez said his committee found "substantial evidence" against 25 army and 15 marine officers who were allegedly involved in the Feb. 24-26 "aborted plan to withdraw support" from the Arroyo government.

Photo: Philippines: mutineers planned to seize president

He said his committee recommended a court martial for mutiny, failure to report or suppress mutiny, sedition, disrespect toward the president and superior officers, and other violations of the Articles of War.

The officers have been relieved of their posts and placed in custody of their commanders, according to the AP.

Lopez said the plot failed because the rebel officers did not have time to gather enough forces.

Arroyo has accused "military adventurists," communist rebels and civilian backers for the February plot that prompted her to declare a weeklong state of emergency.