A senior Islamic militant was among six killed in an assault by Philippines troops on a rebel camp on the southern island of Jolo, officials say.Abu Sayyaf commander Albader Parad was wanted for the abduction of three Red Cross workers on the island last year.
Gen Benjamin Dolorfino said his death was a "big blow" to the group. "We have confirmed that one of the six bodies found belonged to Albader Parad as confirmed by independent civilian sources," said Gen Dolorfino. "We consider it a big blow on the cause of Islamic militants in the south."
He said Sunday's raid was carried out after tip-offs from local residents.
One marine was killed and three were wounded during the assault.
Philippine officials said in December 2009 that they had arrested an Abu Sayyaf founder - Abdul Basir Latip - who has allegedly been involved in kidnapping foreigners and Christians. He has also been accused of forging links between Abu Sayyaf and other militant Islamist groups, such as Jemaah Islamiah and al-Qaeda