Police quell women's protest in Manila

MANILA, Philippines, March 7 (UPI) -- Police in Manila, Philippines, Wednesday formed a barricade around the U.S. Embassy to prevent the militant women's group Gabriela from defacing the property.

No injuries were reported in the scuffle that came one day ahead of International Women's Day March 8, Gulf News reported.

Women shoved and pushed police during the demonstration protesting the U.S. military's presence in the country, and some protesters attempted to deface the embassy with red paint, the news agency said.

Gabriela has a long history of protesting the U.S. military, saying Filipino women are the subject of abuse and prostitution.

U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon issued a statement for International Woman's Day 2012, saying, "There is a long way to go before women and girls can be said to enjoy the fundamental rights, freedom and dignity that are their birthright and that will guarantee their well-being."