Manila - Fierce fighting erupted Wednesday between government soldiers and Muslim secessionist rebels in the southern Philippines, killing one guerrilla, a military spokesman said.

The fighting erupted when patrolling troops encountered a large number of heavily armed Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) rebels in Maitum town in Sarangani province, 1,035 kilometres south of Manila, Major Armand Rico said.

Rico said soldiers requested air support as the fighting raged in the area.

"I think this is a large group because the troops are requesting air support," he said.

The renewed hostilities occurred as peace talks between the 12,000-strong MILF and the Philippine government were stalled over disagreements on the scope of territory of a proposed Muslim homeland.

More rebel commanders have become impatient over the suspension of the talks and expressed doubts on the sincerity of the government, raising fears of escalating hostilities. (dpa)