CAMP SIONGCO, Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte – Troops from the 6th Infantry (Redskin) Battalion recovered several war materiel following an encounter with an estimated four armed members of a local terrorist group in Barangay Penditen, Datu Salibo, Maguindanao del Sur around 5:00 PM on May 3, 2025.
According to Lt. Col. Al Victor C. Burkley, Commanding Officer of the 6IB, the encounter occurred during a routine combat patrol by government forces.
In the clearing operation that followed, the troops recovered one M14 rifle, two magazines, one bandolier, two caliber .45 pistols, and other combat-related items. Traces of blood were also found at the scene, indicating that some members of the armed group may have been wounded.
Following directives from Brig. Gen. Jose Vladimir Cagara, Commander of the 1st Brigade Combat Team, and Brig. Gen. Edgar Catu, Commander of the 601st Infantry Brigade, a pursuit operation was immediately launched to track down the fleeing terrorists. All patrol bases within their areas of operation have been placed on high alert, with intensified intelligence monitoring and checkpoint operations underway.
Major General Donald M. Gumiran, Commander of the 6th Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Central (JTFC), emphasized that the outcome of the operation reflects the military’s firm resolve to eliminate terrorist threats in the region.
“We will continue conducting focused military operations to end the threat of local terrorism in Central Mindanao. Our troops remain steadfast in their mission to ensure the safety and security of our fellow citizens,” said Maj. Gen. Gumiran.
He also called on the public to cooperate with authorities by providing information that could help accelerate the military’s operations against the remaining terrorist elements in the area.