The Philippine government launched an offensive against rebels in Zamboanga, a city in the predominantly Muslim region of the Philippines. The rebels, part of an independence movement, have been besieging the city for four days and are holding 80 to 180 civilians as hostages. This conflict, which began in the 1970s, has resulted in at least 150,000 deaths.

What was the primary objective of the Philippine government forces' offensive?

• To provide humanitarian aid

• To negotiate peace with the rebels

• To launch an offensive against the rebels

• To evacuate civilians from the area

Where did the elite soldiers and police engage in combat with the insurgents?

• Manila

• Davao

• Cebu

• Zamboanga

What was the purpose of the insurgents' arrival in Zamboanga?

• To seek asylum

• To establish a trade route

• To declare the region's independence

• To conduct peace talks

How many civilians were held hostage by the rebels?

• Between 50 and 100

• Between 200 and 300

• Between 80 and 180

• Between 400 and 500

Since when has the conflict in the region been ongoing?

• Since the 1980s

• Since the 1990s

• Since the 1970s

• Since the 1960s