SHARIFF SAYDONA MUSTAPHA, Maguindanao del Sur — A suspected improvised explosive device (IED) exploded near a Philippine Army Tactical Armored Vehicle (TAV) stationed at a temporary patrol base in Barangay Linantangan on Sunday evening, July 19, marking the fourth recorded attack targeting government troops since the implementation of the total gun ban in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) ahead of the region’s first Parliamentary Elections.
The explosion occurred at approximately 6:45 p.m., prompting an immediate security response from troops deployed in the area.
According to a spot report from the 34th Infantry Battalion, an unidentified suspect allegedly threw or placed the suspected IED beside the armored vehicle assigned to secure the temporary patrol base.
Fortunately, no military personnel were killed or injured, and the armored vehicle reportedly sustained no major damage. Soldiers immediately secured the vicinity following the blast while authorities launched pursuit and investigation operations.
Military officials said investigators are now working to determine the identity of those behind the attack, establish the type of explosive used, and determine whether the incident was intended to harass security forces or disrupt ongoing election security operations.
Security measures in Barangay Linantangan and nearby communities have since been intensified, with additional monitoring and patrols being conducted to prevent similar incidents.
The latest explosion comes amid heightened security operations across BARMM following the enforcement of the total gun ban, a key election security measure aimed at preventing election-related violence ahead of the historic parliamentary polls.
The attack also adds to a growing list of security incidents involving government forces since the start of the election period. This is now the fourth recorded attack against military personnel and installations during the implementation of the gun ban, raising concerns over persistent threats from armed groups and individuals despite intensified security measures.
Authorities have not yet identified the perpetrators, and no group has claimed responsibility for the explosion.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines and other security agencies continue to maintain heightened alert status throughout BARMM as they intensify efforts to safeguard communities and ensure a peaceful, orderly, and credible parliamentary election.
An investigation remains ongoing.