[Sun Star] Two Abu Sayyaf militants died in a firefight as military operations continue against insurgents in the province of Sulu.Joint Task force Sulu commander Cirilito Sobejana said the clash took place Wednesday morning in the village of Sandah, Patikul, Sulu. He said the soldiers were on combat operation when they clashed with a group of 15 Abu Sayyaf rebels. Sobejana said the gun battle lasted for about 15 minutes and resulted in the death of two insurgents, with no casualties on the government side.
Military spokesperson Jo-ann Petinglay said the deaths bring to 81 the number of Abu Sayyaf militants slain since the operation started last January. She said that 50 rebels have surrendered, 18 have been arrested and 70 high powered firearms were seized from the Abu Sayyaf.