(UPDATE) 2 rebels killed in Bukidnon clash

MANILA, Philippines (Xinhua) - Two suspected members of leftist New People's Army (NPA) were killed in a clash with the military's elite troopers in Bukidnon before dawn today, official said.

Jayvee Santiago, platoon leader of the 10th Scout Ranger Company, said that his unit was conducting tracking patrol when they engaged the rebels who were hiding in the bushes in Kipolot sub-village in Palacapao village, Quezon town at around 2:25 a.m. local time.

"They established a temporary encampment in the woods and are planning to launch another attack at a nearby police detachment," said Santiago.

The firefight which lasted for 30 minutes resulted to the death of two rebels and the government troops also confiscated three high-powered firearms including two M-16A1 and one AK-47 rifles.

There was no casualty on the government side.