World IN BRIEF : PHILIPPINES : South’s Referendum Headed for Defeat

A ballot proposal to establish an autonomous Muslim region with limited self-rule in the southern Philippines appeared headed for defeat. Early results in 13 provinces and nine cities indicated a strong rejection of the referendum. Full results are not expected for several days. A low voter turnout was reported, prompting a claim of victory by the Muslim separatist Moro National Liberation Front, which had urged a boycott of the balloting. Defeat would mark the first election setback for Corazon Aquino’s government since it came to power in 1986. It would dim chances of settling a Muslim separatist revolt that has long divided the south, where more than 5 million Christians form a majority over 3.5 million Muslims.