Moro rebels: Philippine peace pact possible soon

MANILA — A leader of the largest Moro rebel group in the Philippines said a peace accord with the government can be forged soon despite attempts by a breakaway guerrilla faction to derail the talks.

Chief negotiator Mohagher Iqbal of Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) said Monday that more than 50 percent of the issues the rebels were tackling with government negotiators have been settled in principle. Philippine officials have expressed the same optimism.

Iqbal said both sides continue to attempt to fully resolve the most contentious issues, including the extent of power, revenues and territory to be granted to a Muslim-administered region in the south.

A rebel faction opposed to the talks recently launched attacks on troops but has been weakened by a military crackdown. (AP)