05 May 2020 | 08:19 AM UTC
Philippines: Militants kill two soldiers in Maguindanao province May 3
Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) militants kill two soldiers in Maguindanao province on May 3; further clashes likely in southern regions over the coming weeks
Event
Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) reportedly killed two Filipino soldiers and wounded one other during a security operation in Datu Hoffer town (Maguindanao province) on Sunday, May 3. An exchange of fire occurred when the militants attacked a checkpoint in Barangay Talibadok.
Further military operations and clashes are expected in the coming days and weeks in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
Context
BIFF is an Islamist militant organization and Moro secessionist group active in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. The group has been active since 2008, when it split from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).
Advice
Individuals in the southern Philippines are advised to monitor developments to the situation, remain vigilant for militant and criminal activity, anticipate continued military operations, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments.
As a reminder, several Western governments advise against travel to western and central Mindanao and the Sulu Archipelago due to the risk of kidnapping and terrorism.
