The Philippine government has banned [originaltext] The Philippine government

The Philippine government has banned news reports about the fighting on southern Jolo Island. But local villagers who fled the area say many people have been hurt. Philippine government troops launched a major attack against Moslem separatist guerrillas on Jolo Island Saturday. The troops are trying to rescue 19 hostages held by Moslem rebels. Philippine defense minister told French reporters that there were no confirmed deaths or injuries among the hostages. However, the military is investigating unconfirmed reports that the rebels had killed several of the hostages after the government attack began.