41.   The recent clashes flared last month when MILF guerrillas attacked army outposts in several Lanao del Norte towns.

42.   A statement said the Peruvian aircraft were attempting to attack Ecuadoran outposts along the disputed border.

43.   Army Colonel Asley Salvador blamed the MILF for attacking military outposts despite an order by President Fidel Ramos for unilateral ceasefire during the Christmas holidays.

44.   The guerrillas were still attacking government outposts, murdering and kidnapping people, Tomsen said.