Four Philippine Army soldiers were killed in an ambush on January 23, 2026, in Munai, Lanao del Norte. The attack was carried out by suspected remnants of the Dawlah Islamiyah-Maute Group (DI-MG), according to the Philippine Army.
Soldiers Identified
The fallen soldiers have been identified as Staff Sergeant Diosito Araya, of the 1st Civil-Military Operations Battalion (CMOBn); Sergeant Gilbert Arnoza, of the 106th Infantry Battalion; Sergeant Junel Calgas, of the 97th Infantry Battalion; and Private Sean Mark Laniton, of the 44th Infantry Battalion. They were all enlisted personnel assigned to Task Unit Tabang, operating under the 2nd Mechanized Infantry Brigade.
Philippine Army Commanding General Lt. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. visited Lanao del Norte to honor the fallen soldiers and pay their respects.
Survivor Receiving Care
Corporal Rollen Dela Cruz, of the 10th Infantry Battalion, survived the ambush and is currently recovering at the Mercy Community Hospital in Brgy. Tubod, Iligan City, Lanao del Norte. He was awarded the Wounded Personnel Medal by Generals Nafarrete and Brawner.
General Nafarrete stated that the Philippine Army will provide “full and immediate support” to the families of the deceased soldiers.
Retaliation and Ongoing Operations
The Philippine Army characterized the attack as a retaliatory act by a weakened terrorist group attempting to regain prominence. The AFP has vowed to pursue those responsible and secure affected communities. Current operations are focused on locating and neutralizing the perpetrators and preventing further attacks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the purpose of the soldiers’ mission?
The soldiers were on a non-combat and community-focused mission when they were attacked.
Who is believed to be responsible for the ambush?
The ambush is suspected to have been carried out by remnants of the Dawlah Islamiyah-Maute Group (DI-MG).
What is the military’s response to the attack?
The AFP is intensifying focused actions to locate and neutralize the perpetrators, prevent further threats to civilians, and ensure the safety and stability of the affected communities.
How might this incident impact future security strategies in the region?
