Clearing operations continue in Zamboanga City

MANILA, Philippines – Clearing operations in Zamboanga City could last at least 10 more days. On Saturday, the government declared the crisis over, saying all civilian hostages are accounted for, while Nur Misuari’s top aide, Habier Malik and his men, are on the run. The conflict began on September 9, when Misuari’s MNLF faction occupied several barangays and engaged government forces in clashes that lasted nearly three weeks. About 200 people, including 166 MNLF fighters, where killed in the standoff. The clashes also left more than 100,000 residents displaced. Social welfare and development Secretary Dinky Soliman says the evacuees cannot return to their homes yet until the clearing operations have been completed. News Now, ANC, September 29, 2013