Frantically trying to obtain the release of a captive Filipino truck driver with the clock ticking down, the Philippines said Tuesday it would withdraw its tiny peacekeeping force from Iraq ( news -web sites ) as soon as it can. However, the statement, which followed all-night Cabinet consultations, was unclear as to whether Manila was advancing the pullout as demanded by the Iraqi militant kidnappers, or was sticking by its commitment to bring its 51-strong force home on Aug. 20 as planned. [more] Pictured above: A protester holds a cardboard disc during a protest in Manila, urging the government to pull out its 51-man contingent from Iraq to save the life of hostage Angelo de la Cruz [more]