Muslim rebels killed eight armed employees of a local politician in a clash in the southern Philippines yesterday, the military said.

Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) rebels opened fire at the security staff of a Muslim political clan at its property on Mindanao island, said Colonel Prudencio Asto, spokesman for an army division based in the region.

"The clash left at least eight people dead, at least four injured and there are two missing on the Mangudadatu side," Asto said, referring to the property owners who are related to Esmael Mangudadatu, governor of Maguindanao province.

"The armed supporters were assigned to protect the properties of the Mangu-dadatus,” Asto added.

The local military was ordered to stay clear of the fight, which occurred in the town also called Mangudadatu, Asto said.