Fighting in central Mindanao between Philippine government forces and Muslim groups has driven some 130,000 people out of their homes, raising the spectre of a humanitarian crisis, UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon said Tuesday, the dpa reported.
Ban said the displaced people face threats against their lives and livelihoods in the decades-long conflict between Manila and Muslims in the south.
Ban called 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," Ban said in a statement.