MANILA, Philippines – The Zamboanga City Council ordered a forced evacuation in 5 villages in Zamboanga City, Thursday night, September 12.

Ordinance 418 was approved by the Council, effectively implementing forced evacuation in barangays Rio Hondo, Sta Barbara, Sta Catalina, Talon-Talon and Mampang.

The Zamboanga City Government said the evacuation is a resort “when a disaster [or] emergency has been declared in Zamboanga City and danger or loss of lives becomes imminent.”

Because of the Forced Evacuation Ordinance, local authorities, police and government troops will ensure evacuees do not return to their homes until Zamboanga City Mayor Beng Climaco declares “back to normal” status, according to the Philippine Information Agency of Western Mindanao.

Rappler reported on Thursday night between 70 to 80 armed followers of Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) founder Nur Misuari surrendered around 8 pm in Barangay Sta Barbara.

President Benigno Aquino III arrived in Zamboanga City, Friday, September 13, as the standoff between MNLF rebels and government troops entered its 5th day. – Rappler.com