Voters back self-administration in Philippine region of Mindanao

Voters in the Philippine region of Mindanao have overwhelmingly backed a move for greater autonomy.

Eighty-five per cent voted for the creation of a self-administered area to be called Bangsamoro.

A three-year transition will now begin to transfer executive, legislative and fiscasl power to the region, while foreign and monetary policies, as well as defence, will continue to be overseen by the central government.

The referendum on Monday, January 21, was seen as the culmination of a peace process to end decades of separatist conflict in the area.