Bacolod-Kalawi, Lanao del Sur — A key figure of the Daulah Islamiya-Maute Group (DI-MG) was killed in an armed encounter with government forces on May 9, 2025, in the mountainous area of Barangay Tambo.
Troops from the 51st Infantry (Fuerte Uno) Battalion, operating under the 103rd Infantry (Haribon) Brigade, neutralized Nasser Daud, also known as “@Mas’od/Mahater,” in a 15-minute firefight. Daud was considered the top target in the government’s Periodic Status Report (PSR #1) and had been directly linked to the December 3, 2023 bombing at the MSU Gym in Marawi City.
The encounter resulted in the recovery of a COLT M16A1 rifle, several rounds of ammunition, three magazines, an ISIS flag, three cellphones, a Baofeng radio, and other personal items.
Military officials described Daud’s death as a significant blow to the Islamic State East Asia network, noting his role as a high-value target.
Brig. Gen. Billy O. Dela Rosa, commander of the 103rd Infantry Brigade, said the operation highlighted the military’s commitment to ending terrorism in the region. “The neutralization of Nasser Daud is a victory for our troops and the people of this province. We will not relent until the DI-MG threat is completely eradicated,” he said.
Nearby military units have been placed on heightened alert to guard against possible retaliatory attacks and to support ongoing follow-up operations.
Maj. Gen. Yegor Rey P. Barroquillo Jr., commander of Joint Task Force Zampelan, praised the soldiers’ bravery and reaffirmed the military’s resolve to pursue those behind the 2023 Marawi bombing. “Our pursuit will not cease until justice is served. We remain steadfast in our mission to protect our communities,” he said.
The military continues to urge the public to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activities to local authorities.