The MILF’s military chief, Al Haj Murad, says that if peace talks with the government fail, violence in the south will increase. Murad also states that his organization is building up its military and human resources. The government and the MILF are set to meet again in late April. At issue remains the MILF’s demand for recognition of its control of its camps and other territories (Deutsche Presse-Agentur, 04/13/98).