World Notes THE PHILIPPINES

After barely surviving an attempted coup in December, President Corazon Aquino promised to take vigorous action against her foes. But with the military renegades who vied to overthrow her safely underground, she has had trouble finding an enemy to get tough with. Last week, however, the President squared off against Juan Ponce Enrile, the lone opposition member of the Senate and a Defense Minister under Ferdinand Marcos. Enrile had been Aquino's nemesis ever since their brief political alliance broke up acrimoniously in November 1986. At that time, soldiers linked to Enrile had reportedly tried to stage a coup against the government.

In Manila last week the National Bureau of Investigation charged Enrile with rebellion, which carries a penalty of up to twelve years. According to the bureau, Enrile was said to have been seen with mutineers on the day the December coup attempt began. One of those reportedly observed by three waiters who were catering a meal at Enrile's suburban residence: Gregorio ("Gringo") Honasan, a leader of the rebellion and Enrile's erstwhile security chief. The Senator has denied the allegations and said the government was "clutching at straws." He added, "I welcome the opportunity to face up to this problem so we can settle it once and for all."