The military has confirmed that the alleged members of the Dawlah Islamiyah-Maute Group (DI-MG) killed in an operation in Marantao, Lanao del Sur were also responsible in the ambush that killed four government soldiers in Munai, Lanao del Norte on January 23, 2026.

According to the Army’s 1st Infantry Division (1ID), the confirmation was based on a validated intelligence and forensic examination of recovered materials, particularly a video retrieved from the cellphone of a female Maute group member who was among the killed during the operation.

It can be recalled that 10 alleged DI-MG, including two leaders, were killed in an armed encounter with government troops in Marantao on April 17, 2026.

1ID said the footage showed direct and compelling evidence linking the slain alleged terrorists to the ambush of Army troops in Munai.

Authorities added that the recovered video clearly showed the involvement of the identified DI-MG members, strengthening other intelligence reports and recovered war materials that established their identities and accountability.

1ID said justice has been served for the fallen soldiers.

“This was a legitimate operation, fully compliant with rules of engagement. The Philippine Army remains steadfast in its mandate to relentlessly pursue and decisively neutralize enemies of the State, ensuring all actions are directed strictly against lawful targets. The video recovered from the cellphone of a female Maute member further reinforces that justice has been duly served for our fallen comrade,” 1ID Commander, Major General Yegor Rey Barroquillo Jr., said.

The military maintained that all its operations are intelligence-driven and based on strict target validation to ensure only legitimate threats are engaged while minimizing risks to civilians.

1ID added that it remains committed to upholding human rights and adhering to International Humanitarian Law in maintaining peace and stability in Lanao.