TRADERS READ A NEWSPAPER AT PHILIPPINE STOCK EXCHANGE IN MANILA, 1998-05-12 (photo)

Traders at the floor of the Philippine Stock Exchange in Manila pause to read a local newspaper carrying the headline that Vice President Joseph Estrada has the lead in the presidential race May 12. Estrada, an ex-film star whose modest education troubles the business community, has taken an early lead in the vote counting and exit polls indicate he may win by a landslide. The main share index edged up 4.56 points to end at 2,214.52 on Tuesday attributed by brokers to a generally peaceful election although market was still cautious due to the tentative poll results. EDC/JO/WS