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Philippine government 'risking peace process' says rebel leader

A Muslim rebel leader warned the Philippine government on Wednesday it risks endangering a fragile peace process if it files criminal charges against one of its commanders for fighting that displaced thousands of civilians.

  • AP
  • Published: 09:52 August 13, 2008
  • Gulf News

Manila: A Muslim rebel leader warned the Philippine government on Wednesday it risks endangering a fragile peace process if it files criminal charges against one of its commanders for fighting that displaced thousands of civilians.

Moro Islamic Liberation Front guerrillas, some carrying their dead, withdrew from several occupied southern villages Tuesday following a three-day military offensive.

The rebels moved in despite a 2003 ceasefire, after the Supreme Court blocked a preliminary agreement with the government to expand an autonomous region for the Muslim minority in the south.

At least two soldiers were killed and 14 wounded. An army spokesman, Major Armand Rico, said up to 31 rebels may have been killed, but the rebels said only four of their men died.

Presidential spokesman Jesus Dureza said police were preparing charges against the local rebel commander in North Cotabato province, Ameril Umbra Kato, including arson, destruction of plantations, looting of properties and cattle rustling.

National police chief Avelino Razon said he was hopeful an arrest warrant for Kato would be issued soon.

The government accused Kato and about 1,000 guerrillas of occupying predominantly Christian farmlands last month and ignoring an ultimatum to withdraw, which prompted about 3,000 troops and police to launch a massive assault Sunday to dislodge the rebels.

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