26 Killed in clashes between government troops and militants in Philippines

Officials say the death toll in fighting between Philippinegovernment troops and militants who launched a surprise attack to regain controlof a captured jungle training encampment has risen to 26.Capt. Maria Rowena Muyuela, the regional military spokeswoman, said field reportsThursday showed 25 Abu Sayyaf militants have been killed and 24 wounded.Philippine marines suffered 1 dead and 19 wounded.The heavy exchange of rifle grenade and mortar fire erupted late Tuesday in amountain area off southern Sulu province’s Patikul town then eased into sporadicexchanges of sniper shots past midnight, with reinforcement marines beating backabout 100 Abu Sayyaf attackers, military officials were quoted by MSN News assaying.