MANILA, Philippines—Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff General Alexander Yano said security forces were "planning contingencies" to respond to any threats that could arise from the Supreme Court's ruling stopping the government from signing a deal on homeland with Moro rebels.

At the same time, Yano appealed to concerned parties to "remain calm and reasonable" and allow the mechanisms of the peace process to work.

The high tribunal issued a temporary restraining order on the eve of the signing in Putrajaya, Malaysia of the agreement that would expand the homeland or ancestral domain of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.

North Cotabato officials wanted a full disclosure of the contents of the MOA ahead of its signing and petitioned the high court to issue the TRO.

"We are closely monitoring the developments, planning contingencies and appropriately taking action to ensure that law prevails and peace reigns in the region." Yano said in a statement to reporters.

"The Armed Forces of the Philippines is more than capable and prepared to respond to any threat situation that may arise following the SC's issuance of the TRO," he added.

Government and rebel negotiators had hoped that the signing of the homeland agreement would pave the way for the resumption of formal peace talks.