149 schools reopen as Zambo standoff enters 17th day

MANILA, Philippines - Dozens of schools outside the conflict zone in Zamboanga City resumed their classes on Wednesday amid the standoff between government forces and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) that has continued to its 17th day.

The Department of Education (DepEd) said in its Twitter acount that 149 schools in "non-affected areas" in Zamboanga City open their classes today.

The agency also posted a photo of schoolchildren of Sta. Maria Central School preparing for the "ceremonial opening" of schools.

Arms forward! Students of Sta. Maria Central School preparing for the ceremonial opening of schools in Zambo. pic.twitter.com/PYYx1KzmB5

— DepEd (@DepEd_PH) September 24, 2013

In her Facebook account, Zamboanga City mayor Beng Climaco said on Tuesday night that classes in schools outside the seven-kilometer radius from the conflict zone will resume today except in some areas.

She said 156 schools outside the areas of concern and critical area or 80 percent of total schools are expected to resume classes.

But those located in the areas of concern, particularly the 33 schools in four barangays and eight island barangays, will remain closed.

The city government said the list includes the schools in Labuan, Limpapa, Ayala, Cawit, Baluno, Pasonanca, Lamisahan, Tetuan, and Zambowood.

Upon advise from Brgy Captains, classes don't open tomorrow in Labuan, Limpapa, Ayala, Cawit, Baluno, Pasonanca, Lamisahan, Tetuan,Zambowood

— zambocitygovt (@zambocitygovt) September 24, 2013

The Zamboanga standoff started on September 9 when MNLF rebels from the Nur Misuar-led faction occupied several villages and took civilians as hostages and used them as human shields.

They have been engaged with government forces in the ongoing hostilities that have so far killed 13 soldiers and 105 rebels.