07 Jul 2018 | 01:09 AM UTC
Philippines: Military offensive in Lanao del Sur and Maguindanao
Military announces June 18 that it killed 22 rebel fighters in Lanao del Sur and Maguindanao provinces in southern offensive
Event
Five members of the Maute Group were killed in an airstrike in Lanao del Sur province on Sunday, June 17, while 17 fighters from Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) were killed in Maguindanao province, according to a military announcement on Monday, June 18. The attacks come as the Philippine Army launched a fresh offensive against rebel groups in the southern provinces. Military sources also report that the operation destroyed a BIFF bomb factory. Additional military operations in the area are possible.
Context
BIFF is an Islamist militant organization and Moro secessionist group active in the Mindanao region. BIFF has been active since 2008, when it split from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).
The Maute group, also known as the Islamic State of Lanao, has clashed with the Philippine Army since 2013, notably in 2017 in the Battle of Marawi.
Advice
Individuals in the abovementioned affected areas are advised to monitor developments to the situation, remain vigilant for potential militant activity, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.
