Manila - Two communist rebels were killed Monday in a clash with government troops in the southern Philippines, a regional military spokesman said.

Major Armand Rico said the fighting erupted when communist rebels attacked before dawn an army outpost in Pantukan town in Compostela Valley province, 990 kilometres south of Manila.

Rico said one pro-government militiaman was wounded in the fighting that lasted for more than three hours.

Troops recovered three assault rifles, one hand grenade and a radio transceiver left behind by the fleeing rebels.

Rico said an air force helicopter gunship was utilized to provide support for ground troops pursuing the rebels.

Communist rebels have been fighting the government since the late 1960s, making the movement one of the longest-running leftist insurgencies in Asia. (dpa)