The Philippine military says Muslim rebels have attacked two southern villages, killed a local official and burned houses in a new escalation of fighting.

Regional military spokesman Maj. Armand Rico says the villages of Linamon and Kulambugan in Lanao del Norte province came under attack early Monday from renegade forces of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. He says a village leader has been executed by the rebels.

Rebel spokesman Eid Kabalu has confirmed the attack, but says it was carried out by a renegade commander and without the knowledge of their leadership.

Rico says there are reports that a number of civilians have been taken hostage by the rebels.