BAGUIO CITY — Government forces engaged in an ongoing firefight Tuesday morning with approximately 10 suspected armed men in Barangay Bonglo, Abra province, leaving at least three suspects dead, military officials said.

The encounter occurred around 11:10 a.m. during a pursuit operation, according to the Philippine Army’s 5th Infantry “Star” Division.

Military officials said the armed group is affiliated with the Ilocos-Cordillera Regional Committee.

Soldiers from the 50th Infantry Battalion and the 98th Infantry Battalion encountered the group while conducting sustained military operations in the area.

Army personnel recovered two M16 rifles and one M14 rifle at the scene, along with the bodies of three slain suspects, according to initial military reports.

The firefight remained active as of Tuesday, the army said. Further details will be released following validation and confirmation by units on the ground.