Gunfire between Philippine forces and armed clan leaves three soldiers wounded

A gun battle in Picong, southern Philippines, wounded three soldiers after armed members of the Labao family fired at government forces.

The fighting began during a joint military and police operation linked to a clash between the Labao and Gaosil families.

It lasted about eight hours, and the armed group withdrew into a forest.

Authorities halted traffic on a major highway, leaving hundreds of passengers and other travellers stranded.

The route connects Cotabato and Davao, and vehicles were stopped to reduce the risk of stray bullets hitting people.

Police have opened a formal investigation to establish what happened and who was responsible.

More security forces were sent to the area, and troops remain there while authorities work to protect residents and restore traffic.