DATU HOFFER AMPATUAN, Maguindanao del Sur — Heavy fighting erupted between government troops and suspected Dawlah Islamiya militants on Tuesday morning, leaving one soldier wounded and forcing hundreds of civilians to flee their homes in Barangay Tuayan Mother, local military officials confirmed.
The clash broke out shortly after 10:00 a.m. when troops from the 90th Infantry Battalion (90IB) encountered armed elements identified as members of the Dawlah Islamiya Hassan Group during security operations in the area. The encounter quickly escalated into a firefight, prompting the Army to launch focused combat clearing operations to prevent the militants from regrouping or threatening nearby communities.
Lt. Col. Ronald Suscano, spokesperson of the 6th Infantry Division (6ID), said clearing operations are ongoing as of Tuesday night, with sporadic gunfire still being reported in the vicinity.
“Our troops are conducting combat clearing operations to ensure the area is secured and to protect civilians from further harm,” Suscano said.
The 6th Infantry Division later confirmed that one soldier was wounded during the encounter. The injured trooper was immediately evacuated for medical treatment and is now reported to be in stable condition.
In a radio interview, 6ID Commander Maj. Gen. Jose Vladimir Cagara confirmed the injury and said military operations remain active.
“The operations are continuing as of this time. Our priority is to neutralize the armed threat while ensuring the safety of civilians,” Cagara said.
Civilians Caught in the Crossfire
As gunfire echoed through the area, hundreds of residents from Barangay Tuayan Mother and nearby sitios were forced to evacuate amid fear for their safety. Local authorities swiftly moved families—many of them women and children—to the municipal gymnasium of Datu Hoffer Ampatuan, which has been designated as a temporary evacuation center.
Residents described moments of panic as the fighting erupted.
Local sources said the sudden clash disrupted daily life, with families fleeing with only what they could carry. As of press time, no civilian casualties have been officially reported, but authorities are still assessing possible damage to homes and properties.
Security Situation Remains Tense
The encounter underscores the continuing security challenges in parts of Maguindanao del Sur, where remnants of extremist groups remain active despite sustained military operations. The Army has assured the public that it is taking measures to avoid civilian harm and urged residents to cooperate with authorities and remain in designated safe areas until the situation stabilizes.
Military officials said further updates will be released as operations continue and the situation develops.