MANILA, Philippines – Malacañang has denied reports that it is being pressured to end the Zamboanga crisis before US President Barack Obama visits Manila next month.
Deputy Presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said they want to end the conflict not because of Obama, but because they want to achieve peace in Mindanao.
The Zamboanga City crisis entered its seventh day on Sunday, with more than 50 people, including three civilians, killed in the fighting between the Armed Forces and the Nur Misuari faction of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF).
Obama will visit Manila on October 11 and 12 as part of a four-nation tour in the Asia Pacific.
In a statement, the White House said Obama “will meet with President Aquino to reaffirm the strong economic people-to-people and security links between our two countries.”
It will be Obama’s first visit to Manila. -- Report from ANC
source: www.abs-cbnnews.com
