ILIGAN City ― The Philippine Army's 1st Infantry Division confirmed a series of armed encounters between its operating troops, specifically the 1101st Infantry (Gagandilan) Brigade, and the Daulah Islamiyah–Maute Group (DI-MG) in Barangay Padas, Pagayawan, Lanao del Sur, on Nov. 14-15.
The operating troops engaged an undetermined number of DI-MG members in two separate firefights early Saturday morning. The exchange resulted in the death of one DI-MG leader, identified as Najib Laguindab, alias Abu Jihad, who was listed as the No. 2 priority target. Two individuals were also apprehended.
Laguindab, who was part of the group that bombed the Mindanao State University-Marawi in 2023, is the second Maute leader killed by government forces this month, the military said, leaving only two active DI-MG members still at large.
However, one Army soldier was critically wounded and later died from his injuries during evacuation.
Following the encounter, troops seized several items, including an M16 rifle, a .45 pistol, and three improvised explosive devices.
Brigadier Gen. Yasser R. Bara, Commander of the 1101st Infantry Brigade, commended the troops for their achievement, which he said "significantly weakens the enemy’s operational capability in the area."
“I commend our troops for their swift and disciplined actions that led to the neutralization of Abu Jihad, a key DI-MG sub-leader, and the capture of two individuals. We deeply honor the sacrifice of our fallen comrade, whose courage and service embody the finest ideals of a soldier. The Brigade remains committed to sustained operations to secure Lanao del Sur and prevent the resurgence of DI-MG threats,” Brig. Gen. Bara said.
Major Gen. Yegor Rey P. Barroquillo Jr., Commander of the Joint Task Force Zampelan and the 1st Infantry Division, paid tribute to the soldier who sacrificed his life "to finally eradicate the remaining members of the Maute terrorist group and finally attain peace and security in Lanao."
“The death of Abu Jihad delivers a significant blow to the DI-MG remnants. Our soldier fought with discipline and valor. His sacrifice will not be in vain, soon the remaining members will be eradicated and terrorism will end in Lanao,” Barroquillo said.
He added: “I commend our forces for their professionalism and bravery. Despite the loss of one of our soldiers, we remain resolute. The Tabak Division will continue to uphold peace, enforce the law, and protect our people from violent extremism.”
