Mrs Marcos on treasure trail

HONG KONG (Reuter) - Imelda Marcos, the former Philippines first lady, began a low-key Hong Kong treasure-hunt yesterday. It was her first trip abroad since she returned to Manila eight months ago to face more than 80 civil and criminal charges of corruption, currency violation and tax evasion.

She is to consult former associates of her late husband about plans to give up part of the family's fortune in exchange for the dropping of civil cases against her. She has said any assets recovered will go to charity.