2 Marines killed in S. Philippine clash

MANILA, April 13 (Xinhua) -- Two Philippine Marines were killed in a running gunbattle between government forces and suspected members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front in Isabela City, Basilan in south Philippines Tuesday morning, local media reported.

Tony Mendoza, Basilan police director, said a Hyundai van exploded near the grandstand in Isabela City at 10:30 a.m. followed by gunfire from an undetermined number of MILF fighters, abs-cbn reported on its website.

Jamju Rivera, a candidate for councilor in Isabela City, described the situation as a "running gunbattle" between the military and suspected members of the MILF who posed as policemen.

Two Marines were killed and another was wounded in the firefight.

Mendoza said more explosions have rocked the Isabela City plaza, causing many residents to flee. The city proper has been closed due to the ongoing firefight.