The Supreme Court has denied the request of former Autonomous Region for Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Nur Misuari to transfer the hearing of his rebellion case from Sta. Rosa, Laguna, southern Luzon to his hometown in Jolo, southern Philippines.

Misuari, his spiritual leader Abu Harris Usman, and six other followers "have not presented cogent, substantial or compelling arguments to convince us to grant their motions, which are denied with finality," said the 13 Supreme Court justices in a two- page resolution. Three associate justices did not sign the resolution.

"Speculation or suspicion (of Misuari and his associates that they would not get a fair trial) is not equivalent to proof (of that suspicion)," the Supreme Court stressed.

Misuari earlier said he would not get a fair trial in a non-Muslim court.

The apex court also said the Sta. Rosa regional trial court has jurisdiction on Misuari's case even if the two renewed armed attacks of his followers, which were blamed on him, occurred in Jolo, Sulu on November 19, and in Zamboanga City on November 27.

Earlier, Judge Norberto Geraldez reset Misuari's arraignment to May 15, in response to the arguments of his defence lawyers that the Supreme Court had not yet denied with finality their request for a trial in Jolo.

Chief State Prosecutor Jovencito Zuno said his team is ready with the case.