Philippines, MILF rift widens

MANILA, Philippines, Aug. 21 (UPI) -- The Philippine government Thursday was firm on capturing two Muslim rebel commanders as a collapsed peace deal threatened more violence in the Mindanao region. A spokesman said President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has demanded the Moro Islamic Liberation Front leadership surrender its commanders, Abduhrahman Macapaar (also called Bravo) and Ameril Umbra Kato. The two were accused of leading the rebels in attacks on Lanao del Norte and Sarangani villages this week. Several people died in the attacks, which the MILF leadership blamed on rogue elements, the Philippines Star reported. "This excuse has been abused for too long and the president now draws the line," Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita said. Fighting between Philippines security forces and MILF members has escalated after the... [read full story]