PASAY CITY, Philippines — The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) confirmed the arrest of an alleged member of the Dawlah Islamiyah–Maguid terror group at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1 on February 25, 2026, marking a significant breakthrough in the long-running case linked to the 2018 bombing in General Santos City.
According to authorities, the suspect was apprehended immediately upon arrival in the country after being deported from the United States, where he had allegedly fled to evade prosecution. The operation was led by the NBI’s Central Mindanao Regional Office in coordination with the Sarangani District Office, with support from several specialized units including the Intelligence Service, International Airport Investigation Division, Counter-Terrorism Division, and International Operations Division.
Law enforcement officials said the arrest highlighted close coordination among multiple agencies tasked with counterterrorism operations. Tactical support was also provided by the Philippine National Police, particularly its Criminal Investigation and Detection Group and Intelligence Group, reinforcing what authorities described as a unified effort to address both domestic and transnational security threats.
The arrest was carried out based on a warrant issued by the Regional Trial Court Branch 23 of General Santos City for multiple counts of frustrated murder. The charges stem from the 2018 bombing incident in General Santos City, which investigators attributed to remnants of the Dawlah Islamiyah–Maguid group.
Investigators said intelligence reports identified the suspect as a key figure allegedly involved in both the planning and execution of the improvised explosive device (IED) attack. The explosion injured eight civilians, including a three-year-old child, and caused widespread fear in the area at the time.
Authorities said the suspect attempted to escape accountability by leaving the country and staying in the United States. However, he was later detained by U.S. immigration authorities for violations of immigration laws and processed for deportation. NBI agents were waiting at NAIA to serve the warrant of arrest as soon as he arrived in the Philippines.
The NBI described the operation as a demonstration of the reach of law enforcement and the continuing cooperation between Philippine authorities and international counterparts in tracking down individuals accused of terrorism-related crimes.
Officials emphasized that the arrest sends a strong message that fugitives involved in acts threatening national security will be pursued wherever they attempt to hide and will eventually face justice under Philippine law.