SECRETARY-GENERAL STRESSES RESTRAINT AS FIGHTING DISPLACES THOUSANDS IN PHILIPPINES

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General is concerned about the unfolding humanitarian crisis as a result of fighting in central Mindanao (the Philippines), an area which has already been affected by conflict for several decades.  Nearly 130,000 civilians have reportedly been displaced in the past days, and many of them are at risk of losing their lives and livelihoods.

The Secretary-General appeals for restraint, protection of all civilians as well as access for the provision of speedy humanitarian assistance to the affected population.  The United Nations stands ready to support the efforts of the Government of the Philippines in addressing the needs of the affected population.

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