The MNLF , a separatist movement founded in 1971 by Nur Misuari with the aim of establishing an autonomous region for Muslims in this mainly Catholic country , signed a peace deal with the central government in Manila in 1996 , though some of its members have broken away to continue a violent campaign . NEW : MNLF rebels are believed to be holding almost 13,000 hostages , state media reports . Islamic troops continue a tense standoff with Muslim rebels in Zamboanga . Authorities say almost 13,000 people have been evacuated as a result of the fighting . For Tuesday , separatists have fought for independent Muslim state on Zamboanga .
NEW : MNLF rebels are believed to be holding almost 13,000 hostages , state media reports . Islamic troops continue a tense standoff with Muslim rebels in Zamboanga . Authorities say almost 13,000 people have been evacuated as a result of the fighting . For Tuesday , separatists have fought for independent Muslim state on Zamboanga .