The touring Superstars of RAW were caught amid an escalating political crisis
Friday, as the president of the Philippines locked down the country after what
was declared a failed attempt to overthrow the leader from power.
President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo called for a state of emergency and the
military went to high alert, fortifying the presidential palace and arresting
demonstrators celebrating the 20th anniversary of the fall of former dictator
Ferdinand Marcos.
WWE Champion John Cena, Triple H, Women’s Champion Trish Stratus and many other
WWE Superstars were asked to stay in groups and when possible remain in their
hotel rooms because of the chaos and potential for violence. Citizens were told
that all rallies and protests were banned and would lead to more arrests. By
late afternoon, thousands were in the streets in defiance of the government’s
orders, according to multiple media reports.
Despite the danger, 15,000 determined WWE fans braved the streets and filled the
Araneta Coliseum for a successful RAW live event in Manila. There were no
reports of violence at the venue, and all WWE Superstars and personnel are safe
and accounted for, WWE.com confirmed by phone.
RAW’s Superstars are in Manila, the capital of the Philippines, for two live
events as part of WWE’s continuing expansion into foreign markets. The
Superstars of SmackDown recently set attendance records in Mexico and last year
were equally well-received in Europe.
The U.S. Embassy in Manila has issued a Warden Message to American citizens in
the Philippines, advising them to take prudent steps to ensure their personal
safety during this uncertain time.
