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AUSTRALIA

Pre-election polls show dead heat

SYDNEY -- Prime Minister John Howard and his Labor Party challenger were in a virtual tie as voting began today in parliamentary elections, with Australians focusing on the economy and social programs more than Mr. Howard's decision to send troops to Iraq.

Mr. Howard is a strong U.S. ally who sent 2,000 troops to Iraq last year despite protests that portrayed him as a lackey of President Bush. Australia now has 900 military personnel in and around Iraq, though none in combat roles. No Australian soldiers have been killed.

The prime minister has vowed to keep Australian troops in Iraq until their work is completed.

PHILIPPINES

Big earthquake rattles capital

MANILA -- An earthquake with a magnitude of 6.4 shook Manila yesterday, swaying high rises, knocking out power over a wide area and sending frightened residents into the streets. There were no immediate reports of injuries or damage.

The shaking began at 10:36 p.m. and lasted for more than a minute. The epicenter of the quake was on Mindoro island, 55 miles south-southwest of Manila.