DATU HOFFER AMPATUAN, Maguindanao del Sur — One soldier was killed and several others were wounded following a fierce encounter between government troops and members of the Dawlah Islamiya Hassan Group in Barangay Tuayan Mother, Datu Hoffer Ampatuan, on Tuesday morning, January 27, military officials confirmed.
The fatality was identified as Corporal Ryan Jun P. Bagual, a Scout Ranger assigned to the 90th Infantry Battalion (90IB). According to initial reports and family accounts, Bagual sustained a gunshot wound to the head during the firefight, which proved fatal. He was a resident of Poblacion, President Quirino, Sultan Kudarat.
Lt. Col. Ronald Suscano, spokesperson of the 6th Infantry Division (6ID), confirmed that one soldier was killed in the clash, while another was wounded and is now in stable condition. Later updates from military authorities indicated that three soldiers were wounded in total and are currently receiving medical treatment.
The encounter erupted shortly after 10:00 a.m. when troops conducting security and combat operations encountered armed elements believed to be members of the Dawlah Islamiya Hassan Group. The exchange of fire escalated into a sustained firefight, prompting the military to launch combat clearing operations in the area.
According to 601st Brigade Commander Brig. Gen. Edgar Catu, at least four members of the Dawlah Islamiya Hassan Group were wounded during the clash. Military officials said operations are continuing to prevent the militants from regrouping or posing further threats to nearby communities.
“Our troops are still conducting combat clearing operations to secure the area and ensure the safety of civilians,” Suscano said, adding that the situation remains fluid as of press time.
Civilians Displaced
The fighting triggered the displacement of civilians, with at least 83 families—amounting to hundreds of residents—forced to flee their homes amid fears of being caught in the crossfire. Evacuees were temporarily sheltered at the municipal gymnasium of Datu Hoffer Ampatuan, according to local authorities.
Residents recounted scenes of panic as gunfire echoed through their community, forcing families to flee with only their essential belongings. No civilian casualties have been reported so far, but authorities are continuing to assess possible damage to homes and properties.
Security Operations Ongoing
Military officials emphasized that operations against the Dawlah Islamiya Hassan Group are ongoing and vowed to continue efforts to neutralize remaining threats in the area. The Army also urged residents to remain in designated evacuation centers and cooperate with authorities until the security situation stabilizes.
The clash highlights the persistent security challenges in parts of Maguindanao del Sur, where remnants of extremist groups continue to operate despite sustained military offensives.
Further updates are expected as military operations continue and more information becomes available.