SHARIFF AGUAK, MAGUINDANAO DEL SUR – Government troops arrested eight (8) suspected members of local terrorist groups and seized several war materials during a successful military operation in Shariff Aguak at around 4:30 a.m. on October 20, 2025.
According to Brigadier General Edgar L. Catu, Commander of the 601st Infantry (Unifier) Brigade, the operation was launched following reports on the presence of alleged members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters – Bungos Faction (BIFF-BF) and Dawlah Islamiyah – Hassan Group (DI-HG) in the area.
The joint military forces under the operational control of the 601st Brigade carried out a Decisive Military Operation (DMO) which led to the arrest of eight individuals and the confiscation of one (1) M16A1 rifle, eleven (11) magazines, and over two hundred (207) rounds of 5.56mm ammunition. Several cellphones believed to be used for terrorist coordination were also recovered.
The arrested suspects are currently under intensive investigation and custodial debriefing in coordination with the Datu Unsay Municipal Police Station for proper disposition.
In a statement, Brig. Gen. Catu lauded the cooperation between civilians and the military, emphasizing that the capture of the suspects shows the declining support for terrorist groups in the community.
“This operation demonstrates that the people are now choosing peace over violence. We will continue to intensify our efforts to eliminate the remaining elements of these terrorist groups within our area of responsibility,” Catu said.
Meanwhile, Major General Donald M. Gumiran, Commander of the Western Mindanao Command and the 6th Infantry (Kampilan) Division / Joint Task Force Central, commended the 601st Brigade for their successful operation, calling it a testament to the troops’ dedication in protecting the people from terrorism.
“Each successful operation breaks down the walls of fear and violence built by these local terrorist groups. It also strengthens our partnership with local governments and communities towards lasting peace and development in Central and South-Central Mindanao,” Gumiran added.
The military assured the public that operations against remaining terrorist elements will continue as part of their sustained campaign for peace and stability in the region.