CAMP SANG-AN, ZAMBOANGA DEL SUR — In a decisive and uncompromising strike, Philippine troops delivered a crippling blow to the Dawlah Islamiyah–Maute Group (DI-MG) on August 9, 2025, during a high-intensity joint law enforcement operation in Barangay Lamin, Lumbayanague, Lanao del Sur.
Acting on arrest warrants for multiple heinous crimes, the 103rd Infantry “Haribon” Brigade of Joint Task Force ZAMPELAN and its supporting units confronted and overpowered DI-MG remnants in a fierce gun battle, leaving three terrorists dead and three more in custody.
The operation, spearheaded by the 5th Infantry “Duty Bound” Battalion, netted a cache of deadly weapons — including two high-powered rifles, a grenade launcher, a handgun, a rocket-propelled grenade round, and ammunition — along with personal items used to fuel the group’s terror network. The swift and precise assault dismantled a key cell of the group that has long terrorized local communities.
One soldier sustained injuries but was immediately evacuated and is now in stable condition.
Brigadier General Billy Dela Rosa, commander of the 103rd Infantry “Haribon” Brigade, lauded his troops for their unwavering courage and precision in the face of enemy fire.
“This operation is a clear warning to all terrorist elements: your days of sowing fear in Lanao del Sur are numbered. We will find you, we will dismantle your networks, and we will bring peace to our people,” he declared.
Major General Yegor Rey P. Barroquillo Jr., commander of Joint Task Force ZAMPELAN and the 1st Infantry “Tabak” Division, emphasized the strategic victory.
“This decisive strike delivers a massive blow to the Dawlah Islamiyah–Maute Group’s operational core. It proves that the Armed Forces, together with our law enforcement partners, will hunt down and crush anyone who dares to destabilize Mindanao,” he said.
The Armed Forces stressed that the success of this mission not only neutralized a notorious threat but also restored public confidence, paving the way for safer communities, uninterrupted education, thriving livelihoods, and the full return of local governance.
The 103rd Infantry “Haribon” Brigade vowed to intensify its relentless pursuit of all remaining terrorist elements until the last remnants of the DI-MG are completely eradicated from Lanao del Sur.