Piagapo, Lanao del Sur – A member of the Daulah Islamiyah-Maute Group (DI-MG) was killed during a series of clashes between government forces and the militant group in Barangay Kalangan on January 25, 2025.
The encounters, part of ongoing military operations in the region, were confirmed by Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) Commander Lt. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete.
The first engagement occurred at approximately 12:55 PM, when troops from the 8th Scout Ranger Company (8SRC) confronted an undetermined number of DI-MG members, resulting in a 15-minute exchange of gunfire. A subsequent encounter took place a few hours later, involving the 44th Infantry Battalion (44IB). The battalion engaged about 10 DI-MG members, reportedly under the leadership of a militant known as alias Usman, during a decisive military operation (DMO) in the same area.
The operations led to the death of one unidentified DI-MG member and the recovery of an array of war materials, including:
- One M16 rifle
- One M14 rifle
- 32 rounds of 5.56mm ammunition
- Two rifle grenades
- Five 7.62mm magazines
- Eight M1 Garand clips
- Three 5.56mm magazines
- One improvised explosive device (IED) circuit indicator
- Assorted personal items
Government troops reported one wounded soldier who is currently undergoing medical treatment and is expected to recover.
Lt. Gen. Nafarrete lauded the efforts of the Joint Task Force (JTF) ZamPelan in its campaign to maintain peace in the area. He emphasized the military’s commitment to eradicating threats posed by radical groups.
“Our pursuit against the remaining threats to peace and security in our area of responsibility sends a clear message to militant groups that we will not allow them to rest while innocent lives suffer from their deliberate acts of terror,” said Lt. Gen. Nafarrete.
He also urged remaining militant members to surrender and reintegrate into society, highlighting the availability of transformative programs designed to help them start anew as law-abiding citizens.
“I urge the remaining militants to surrender and make amends for their wrongdoings. We have transformative programs that can help them lead a life free from violence,” the WestMinCom commander added.
The Philippine military continues its efforts to neutralize militant groups and ensure lasting peace in conflict-affected areas of Mindanao.
