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MANILA, Philippines (AP) U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham CLinton is in the Philippines on a visit to show support for country's fight against extremists and its efforts to rebuild after three major storms rocked the islands.

Clinton arrived in the capital Manila on Thursday from Singapore and was meeting with top Filipino officials as well as touring U.S.-funded disaster relief projects. Her one-day trip also will focus on countering Muslim extremists who are operating in the country's south.

Despite years of U.S. military training and assistance, Filipino troops have struggled to contain the militants, who have recently intensified attacks, blowing up bridges, firing mortar shells and setting off roadside bombs.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 11-11-09 2316CST | save this article / add to your favorites list