CAMP SANG-AN, Zamboanga del Sur — Government forces engaged suspected members of the Dawlah Islamiya–Maute Group (DI-MG) in a brief firefight during intensified military operations in Sitio Lumaog, Barangay Udalo, Piagapo, Lanao del Sur on January 28, 2026, the military reported.
The encounter involved troops from the 41st Mechanized Company of the 4th Mechanized Infantry Battalion, under the 2nd Mechanized Infantry Brigade, Armor Division. The unit was operating under the operational control of Joint Task Group HARIBON and the 103rd Infantry (Haribon) Brigade.
According to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the clash erupted after government troops made contact with armed DI-MG elements during focused security operations in the area. The militants eventually disengaged and fled following the brief exchange of fire. No casualties or losses were reported on the side of the government troops.
In the aftermath of the encounter, soldiers recovered one M14 rifle, five backpacks, and assorted personal effects believed to have been abandoned by the retreating militants.
The operation forms part of the intensified pursuit and security campaign being carried out by the 1st Infantry Division in response to the recent deadly attack against government forces in Barangay Lininding, Munai, Lanao del Norte.
Maj. Gen. Yegor Rey P. Barroquillo Jr., Commander of Joint Task Force ZAMPELAN and the 1st Infantry Division, reaffirmed the AFP’s resolve to hold those responsible for the attack accountable.
“These operations are directly linked to our commitment to pursue those responsible for the recent attack against our troops. We will not relent in our efforts to seek justice for our fallen heroes and to deny terrorist groups any space to operate,” Barroquillo said, stressing that the AFP will continue decisive and sustained operations to protect communities and preserve peace and security in the area.
The 1st Infantry Division assured the public that military operations are being conducted in close coordination with local government units and other stakeholders, with the utmost regard for civilian safety, as security forces press on with efforts to neutralize remaining threat groups in Lanao del Sur and nearby areas.