Philippine Soldiers Pursue Muslim Rebels; Talks In Peril

ILIGAN, Philippines (AFP)--Soldiers intensified a manhunt for Muslim separatist rebels Tuesday after a deadly rampage in the southern Philippines left more than 30 people dead and threw peace negotiations into chaos.

Hundreds of rebels from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, or MILF, attacked towns in Lanao del Norte and Sarangani provinces Monday, looting business, burning houses and holding dozens hostage.

The near-simultaneous raids began at dawn, triggering intense gun battles in the mostly Christian towns of Kolambugan and Kauswagan.

At least 29 civilians and three soldiers were killed, dozens were wounded and nearly 10,000 residents were displaced by the fighting.