Ben Madilynn
TWO people, a soldier, and a terror group member were killed while two others were wounded in a series of clashes in the province of Lanao del Sur, the military said Monday, January 27, 2025.
The Army’s 1st Infantry Division (1ID) said four intense clashes lasting 15 to 20 each took place during a series of offensives launched against the Dawlah Islamiya-Maute Group from January 24 to 26 in Kalanganan village, Piagapo, Lanao del Sur.
The 1ID did not identify the slain and wounded soldiers except that the offensive involved the 44th Infantry Battalion and 8th Scout Ranger Company and was led by Colonel Billy Dela Rosa, 103rd Infantry Brigade acting commander.
“These engagements (clashes) disrupt the activities of DI-MG forces under alias Usman,” the 1ID said in a statement.
The troops recovered war materials abandoned by the DI-MG members that include an M-16 rifle, an M-14 rifle, rifle grenades, an Improvised Explosive Device circuit indicator, assorted magazines and ammunition.
Major General Gabriel Viray, III, 1ID commander, extended his heartfelt condolences to the family of the fallen soldier and commended the troops for their courage and resilience.
He also lauded the local communities for their resolute support and intelligence contributions, which were critical to the mission’s success.
“This achievement sends a strong message to terrorist groups that we will not tolerate their attempts to disrupt peace and security in the region,” Viray said.
He reaffirmed the commitment to eliminating terrorist threats through strengthened collaboration with local government units and stakeholders, ensuring the continued progress of peace and development in Lanao del Sur province. (SunStar Zamboanga)
