MANILA, Philippines — A radical commander of a new Muslim rebel faction warned Wednesday of retaliation if his jungle-based forces in the southern Philippines come under attack from government troops or his former guerrilla group.

Ameril Umbra Kato said he ordered hundreds of his men in his mountain stronghold in Maguindanao province to take defensive positions after the Islamic holy month of Ramadan ended Tuesday. Insurgents traditionally refrain from engaging in hostilities and government troops limit offensives during the fasting month.