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11 dead as Philippine troops flush out rebels

(Agencies)
Updated: 2008-08-18 16:10

MANILA, Philippines -- Officials say Philippine troops have retaken several southern towns from Muslim rebels after the guerrillas burned houses and shot and hacked to death at least 11 people in the latest outburst of violence.

Police spokesman Nicanor Bartolome says the retreating Moro Islamic Liberation Front rebels have taken hostage 10 civilians from Kolambugan town, while 20 other villagers have been freed.

A rebel spokesman has blamed Monday's rebel raid on a renegade commander frustrated with the slow progress in peace talks, which hit a snag when the Supreme Court blocked an accord to expand an autonomous Muslim region.

President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo earlier has warned the rebels to pull out or be crushed.