(UPDATE) 1 soldier killed, 3 hurt in Ifugao clash

MANILA, Philippines (Xinhua)  - A soldier was killed while three others were wounded in a clash with suspected members of the leftist rebel group New People's Army (NPA) in northern Philippines today morning, a military official said.

Lieutenant General Felicito Virgilio M. Trinidad, Jr., commander of the Armed Forces of the Philippines' North Luzon Command, said government troops clashed with around 25 NPA guerrillas in Camandag village, Asipulo town in Ifugao province.

Trinidad said military forces launched combat operations in the area after receiving information about the presence of leftist rebels there. He said soldiers were fired upon by NPA guerrillas when approaching the area.

He said military forces are conducting pursuit operations against the leftist rebels in Camandag village.