Muslim rebels say early pact with Manila unlikely

MANILA, Philippines (AP) — The largest Muslim rebel group in the Philippines said an early peace pact with the government is unlikely, citing remaining key differences.

Government negotiators on Wednesday ended three days of talks with the 11,000-strong Moro Islamic Liberation Front in Malaysia, which has been brokering the yearslong negotiations. Both sides agreed to hold another round of talks next month.

Government negotiator Marvic Leonen said in a statement Thursday that the talks "have inched forward but not fast enough." He has hoped a peace pact could be concluded within the next three months to allow it to be enforced and adjusted if necessary before President Benigno …