Government forces were gaining ground Sunday in their operations against Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) fighters who are still holding scores of civilian hostages in Zamboanga City, Philippine military said.

"We're gaining ground, we're pushing forward," said military spokesman Ramon Zagala in an interview from Zamboanga City when attending to public affairs requirements of the military in the area.

Zagala declined to detail the ongoing military operations, including the areas still being occupied by the MNLF men, saying this may compromise their campaign. "A lot of things are happening but I cannot say it," he said.

Nevertheless, Zagala said the military have recovered some areas rebels held.

He said the number of MNLF forces in the city is now down to "a little over 100" from a high of 180 to 200. He said the number of MNLF men has dwindled because the troops have already killed 51 of them while 19 others have been captured or have surrendered.

Six soldiers and policemen have died and 59 others were injured since the conflict began, he added.

The military are looking into a speedy resolution of the conflict which began Monday last week, when the government troops and police forces prevented the MNLF men from raising their flag at the city hall, prompting the armed men to seize at least 180 hostages.

The MNLF fighters attempted to raise their flag as part of the cause for independence of MNLF founder Nur Misuari, who is opposed to the peace talks with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). He said an agreement with MILF will invalidate the 1996 peace pact the MNLF signed with government.