It seems cooler heads are prevailing.
from GMA news here:
Malacañang rejects calls for ‘all-out’ war against MILF
08/22/2008 | 04:56 PM
MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang on Friday rejected calls for an “all-out” war with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and said the ongoing police and military operations in Mindanao are only meant to “neutralize” separatists involved in recent attacks against civilians.
“The President wishes to allay fears that an all-out war will be launched by the government in light of increasing calls to do so on one hand, and of concerns of others on the other that such a thrust could be possible at this stage of the vigorous pursuit operations against rogue elements of the MILF,” Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita said.
Calls for an all-out war against the MILF have been increasing following attacks by rogue members of the MILF against civilians last Monday in North Cotabato, Lanao del Norte and Sarangani last Monday.
Among those who advocated total war was former President Joseph Estrada, who chided the Arroyo government of giving back territory that government forces seized from the separatist rebels in 2000 when he was in power.
On the other hand, religious leaders and human rights groups have warned that an all-out war could only aggravate the conflict that has divided Filipinos in the south for decades. Adding to calls for peace last Thursday was former President Corazon Aquino, who said that peace is cheaper than war.