Key Terrorist Leader Neutralized in Lanao del Sur
The Philippine military announced on Monday, November 17, 2025, that a high-ranking leader of the Dawlah Islamiya-Maute Group (DI-MG), implicated in the deadly December 2023 bombing of Mindanao State University (MSU), was killed in an armed encounter. The operation also led to the capture of two of his followers in Padas village, Pagayawan, Lanao del Sur.
Separate Clashes Yield Major Blow to Terror Group
According to Brigadier General Yasser Bara, commander of the 1101st Infantry Brigade, the firefights occurred in two separate instances during the early hours of Saturday, November 15. Government troops were on a security patrol when they engaged with members of the terrorist organization.
The military identified the slain leader as Najib Laguindab, also known as Abu Jihad. He was a central figure in the December 3, 2023, bombing at the MSU Dimaporo Gymnasium in Marawi City. The explosion, which happened around 7:30 a.m. during a religious mass, resulted in the tragic deaths of four individuals and injured 50 others. Among the fatalities were two college professors and two MSU students.
Tragically, the clash also claimed the life of a soldier who was critically injured during the operation and later succumbed to his wounds while being transported to a medical facility.
Weapons Recovered and Leadership Vows Continued Operations
Following the engagements, military personnel successfully recovered significant evidence from the scene, including an M16 rifle, a caliber .45 pistol, and three Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs).
Brigadier General Bara praised the troops for their swift and decisive action, which led to this significant achievement. He stated, "We deeply honor the sacrifice of our fallen comrade, whose courage and service embody the finest ideals of a soldier."
Echoing this sentiment, Major General Yegor Rey Barroquillo Jr., commander of the 1st Infantry Division, emphasized that the death of Abu Jihad is a major setback for the terrorist group. "His sacrifice will not be in vain, soon the remaining members will be eradicated and terrorism will end in Lanao," Barroquillo declared. He confirmed that the death of Abu Jihad delivers a significant blow to the DI-MG remnants and affirmed the military's unwavering commitment to sustained operations to secure Lanao del Sur and prevent any resurgence of threats.
