Philippines warns situation in south could worsen
Updated
Philippines Interior and Local Government Secretary Ronaldo Puno has warned that fighting in the southern island of Mindanao could get worse if the Moro Islamic Liberation Front fails to surrender its two commanders who led attacks in villages there.
Commander Umbra Kato and Commander Bravo have been charged with murder, robbery, arson and illegal detention.
But M.I.L.F. leaders say they cannot surrender their men to the government because they are a revolutionary force, and urged for a halt of the military assault.
Instead they suggested that the M.I.L.F. commanders be subjected to a ceasefire committee involving the government, the rebels and international peacekeepers.
Meanwhile, more than 200,000 civilians have been displaced by the fighting, with children under twleve years making up a large percentage of those affected. Government and private agencies have sent help to those affected and appealed for more assistance.
