[better source needed][7] Due to Misuari's unilateral declaration, the conflict escalated into the Zamboanga City crisis.

[8] The MNLF, the group which proclaimed Bangsamoro, was an observer in the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation when the declaration was made.

As of September 28, 2013, with the defeat in Zamboanga City by the Philippine government, the MNLF no longer controls any territory openly anywhere and the Bangsamoro Republic has been officially debilitated, ending the war.

An independent state of Bangsamoro Republik was first declared on April 28, 1974,[9][10] two months after the siege of Jolo, Sulu after the MNLF first attempted to raise their flag.

[11] MNLF commander Asamin Hussin stated in September 2013 that his group would only release some 200 civilian hostages held in Barangay Kasanyangan once they are allowed to proceed to Zamboanga city hall and hoist their flag in front of it.