FX.co ★ Anti-Apec protests take place in Philippines

November 18-19, the 23rd summit of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) was held in the Philippines capital Manila. APEC is a forum for 21 Pacific Rim member economies, including Russia, that promotes free trade throughout the Asia-Pacific region.

The anti-globalisation protesters were calling for Apec to be dismantled, accusing the trade bloc of taking advantage of poorer countries. Local estimates put the size of the crowd at around 2,000 people.

Demonstrators carrying big placards under the hot sun were chanting anti-Apec and anti-US slogans such as "down with Apec, down with America".

The activists marched down the streets leading to the press center where they clashed with police.

The Russian delegation was presented by PM Dmitry Medvedev who had talks with presidents of Columbia, Korea, Vietnam, and Philippines. It is known that Russia was also presented by famous businessman Aleksey Miller.

Police responded by firing water cannons and scuffled with protesters, before pulling out their secret weapon: Katy Perry on giant loudspeakers.

A draft copy of a declaration accepted by the leaders at the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) summit "strongly condemn" all acts of terror and stress the "urgent need for increased international co-operation and solidarity in the fight against terrorism."

It took several hours to disperse the crowds.