5 rebels killed in Sarangani clash

MANILA, Philippines (Xinhua) - Five members of the New People's Army (NPA) had been killed in a clash with government troops in southern Philippines today, said military officials.

Eduardo Ano, commander of the Army's 10th Infantry Division, said troops from the 27th Infantry Battalion encountered a group of 20 NPA members in Maasim town of Sarangani province at around 2 p.m. local time.

Ano said the soldiers launched the operation in response to information provided by civilians who had earlier reported to the military the presence of the rebels reportedly collecting extortion money and foodstuff.

The official said the troops conducted clearing operation after the firefight and recovered at the scene three enemy bodies and nine firearms - four M16 rifles, one M4 rifle, three M14 rifles and a baby armalite.

Ano said two other rebels were reportedly killed based on information provided by civilians and the army was trying to recover the dead bodies.