Philippine troops have killed three communist guerrillas in two days of fighting on the southern island of Mindanao.

Officials say government troops have fought a series of battles with the communist New People's Army.

They say there were no government troop casualties.

The mayor of the town of Compostela, Renaldo Castillo, says nearly 150 members of local tribal communities have sought refuge in a gymnasium in the town.

The Philippines' new military chief, Lieutenant General Alexander Yano, denied suggestions that the recent rise in guerilla activity in the south was a sign they were getting stronger, and says operations will be stepped up in the region.

The 5,000-member NPA has been waging a 39-year Maoist campaign to seize power in the Philippines.

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