"It seems to me everybody is canvassing votes when only the Batasan Pambansa is authorized by the constitution," Yniguez said.

Mrs. Aquino, 53, has called the 68-year-old president an evil dictator and blamed him for the 1983 assassination of her husband Benigno, who was Marcos' chief political rival.

Marcos says she would lead nation toward communism.

Rene Saguisag, a lawyer Aquino spokesman, said the election was "the dirtiest we have ever had."

Lt. Gen. Fidel V. Ramos, the deputy military commander who was charged with overseeing a peaceful election, called it "the most peaceful election in recent memory," and added: "The true winner in this election is democracy."

Cardinal Jaime L. Sin, archbishop of Manila and spiritual leader of the predominant Roman Catholic community, said, "Whatever may have happened today, and what will still happen, don't be afraid, don't be discouraged, keep calm, do not be provoked to violence."

Shots were fired at American photographers who said they were taking pictures of masked men stuffing ballot boxes in Concepcion, Benigno Aquino's hometown.

Jaime Opinion, an election commission member, told reporters: "We will not hesitate to stop NAMFREL's quick count to prevent them from misleading the people into believing that one candidate has won."