Manila's Arroyo pardons nine leaders of 2003 coup

MANILA (Reuters) - Philippine President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo on Monday pardoned nine army officers convicted of a coup against her, and ordered a 10 percent pay hike for soldiers, moves aimed at consolidating her support in the military.

Arroyo made the announcement during a ceremony to install a new chief of the military, which has consistently backed her during a turbulent seven years in power.

"I have full confidence in the men and women of our armed forces who are loyal to our constitution and to our nation," Arroyo said in a speech at the main army base in Manila where Lieutenant General Alexander Yano took over as the new chief.

Arroyo has survived at least three attempts by her political foes to remove her through an impeachment motion. The military has also helped her face down three plots by rogue soldiers to seize power.

Analysts say she is likely to be able to finish her term in 2010 because of the military's support and the domination of the House of Representatives by her allies.

The plotters she pardoned on Monday were among the leaders of about 300 rogue troops in the takeover of a high-rise apartment in the heart of Manila's financial district in July 2003 and demanded Arroyo step down, accusing her of corruption.

They had pleaded guilty to charges and two were sentenced to life imprisonment. Others got sentences from six to 12 years.

Another 22 men also accused of leading the coup attempt are still on trial.

Philippine governments have traditionally taken a soft line against military adventurists for fear of stirring up further trouble. In 1987, mutineers were given 20 push-ups as punishment for a botched mutiny attempt.