Key Dawlah Islamiya-Maute Leader Killed in Lanao del Sur Clashes

The military announced on Monday, November 17, 2025, that a leader of the Dawlah Islamiya-Maute Group (DI-MG), implicated in a 2023 university bombing, was killed, and two of his associates were apprehended in separate confrontations in Lanao del Sur.

Brigadier General Yasser Bara, commanding officer of the 1101st Infantry Brigade, reported that the incidents occurred early on Saturday, November 15, in Padas village, Pagayawan. During the clashes, a soldier sustained critical injuries and later succumbed en route to the hospital.

According to Brig. Gen. Bara, the brigade’s troops were conducting security patrols when they engaged DI-MG militants twice in the early hours of Saturday.

The deceased militant leader was identified as Najib Laguindab, also known as Abu Jihad. He was involved in the December 3, 2023 bombing at Mindanao State University (MSU), which claimed four lives and injured 50 others. The attack took place at approximately 7:30 a.m. during a mass in the Dimaporo Gymnasium at the MSU campus in Marawi City. Among the fatalities were two college professors and two students.

Following the encounters, soldiers recovered an M16 rifle, a .45 caliber pistol, and three improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

Brig. Gen. Bara praised the troops for their prompt and effective response, which led to the elimination of Abu Jihad and the capture of two DI-MG members.

Major General Yegor Rey Barroquillo Jr., commander of the 1st Infantry Division, honored the fallen soldier, stating, "We deeply honor the sacrifice of our fallen comrade, whose courage and service embody the finest ideals of a soldier. His sacrifice will not be in vain. Soon, the remaining members will be eradicated, and terrorism will end in Lanao."

The military remains resolute in its ongoing operations to secure Lanao del Sur and prevent a resurgence of DI-MG activities.

Major General Barroquillo added, "The death of Abu Jihad delivers a significant blow to the DI-MG remnants."