Estrada claims he is still rightful Philippine President

Disgraced Philippine President Joseph Estrada has emerged from seclusion to tell thousands of cheering supporters he is still the rightful President but would not use violence to reclaim power.

The former matinee idol, ousted in a popular revolt on January 20, said he was committed to the Philippines and would stick by the country's constitution to reclaim the presidency.

His return came a day after new President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo warned she would crush Estrada supporters alleged to be plotting to destabilise her Government.