30 Jul 2019 | 08:25 PM UTC
Philippines: Soldiers kill nine BIFF militants in Maguindanao province in late July
As of July 31, Philippine soldiers kill nine Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) militants in Maguindanao province since July 25; similar clashes expected over near term
Event
As of Wednesday, July 31, Philippine Joint Task Force (JTF) soldiers have killed nine Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) militants in Maguindanao province since Thursday, July 25. The fighting has reportedly included clashes in the town of Shariff Saydona Mustapha, which also left one soldier wounded.
Similar security operations and clashes between Philippine soldiers and BIFF militants are to be expected on Mindanao over the near term.
Context
The Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) is an Islamist militant organization and Moro secessionist group active on Mindanao. The group has been active since 2008, when it split from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).
Advice
Individuals in Maguindanao province are advised to monitor developments to the situation, remain vigilant for potential militant activity, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.
