What went before: PH government vs MNLF

On Sept. 9, 2013, an armed encounter between government forces and a Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) faction led by Nur Misuari broke out on the outskirts of Zamboanga City.

As the fighting later spread to the city itself, about 300 of Misuari’s followers took civilian hostages in Sta. Catalina village and used them as human shields.

The 20-day fighting left seven civilians, 25 government troops and 208 MNLF members dead and 242 others injured. A total of 195 hostages were rescued.

Over 110,000 people fled their homes and major city operations were brought to a standstill. Thirty to 40 hectares of coastal villages were reduced to rubble, with about 10,000 homes razed. Total cost of damage was placed at P3.26 billion.

Misuari, who felt left out of the talks between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, was suspected of instigating the attack on the eve of the resumption of peace talks in Malaysia.

On Oct. 9, 2013, the Zamboanga City Regional Trial Court ordered the arrest of Misuari and three of his key lieutenants three days after the Department of Justice brought rebellion and other criminal charges against them and 60 of their followers who were captured or surrendered during the fighting.

No bail was set for Misuari and three other MNLF commanders, but a P200,000 bail for each of their accused followers was recommended.

Sources: Inquirer Archives, NDRRMC

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