Rebels have been fighting for independence from the Philippines for decades . After 15 years of talks , they are set to sign a peace deal here in Manilla . agreed upon in 1976 and 1996 , the state news agency reported . The agreement is to create a new autonomous region administered by Muslims . The region in the southern Philippines will be called Mindanao .
Rebels have been fighting for independence from the Philippines for decades . After 15 years of talks , they are set to sign a peace deal here in Manilla . The agreement is to create a new autonomous region administered by Muslims . The region in the southern Philippines will be called Mindanao .