9 terrorists slain in Lanao del Sur clash

MANILA, Philippines — Nine members of the Dawlah Islamiya have been killed in an encounter with soldiers in Piagapo, Lanao del Sur.

The slain terrorists were identified only by their aliases of Riman, Mohaimen, Mauwiyah, Muhajir, Imam Gutiz, Abdullah, Mikdad, Hamza and Omar.

The Philippine Army said three of the fatalities were tagged in the bombing at the Mindanao State University last month. Four people died and 45 others were wounded in the bombing during a Catholic mass at the MSU gymnasium in Marawi.

The military said six other terrorists and four soldiers were wounded in the firefight.

Two soldiers ”with serious wounds” were taken to a hospital, Brig. Gen. Yegor Rey Barroquillo said.

Soldiers belonging to the 103rd Infantry Brigade and First Infantry Division encountered around 15 terrorists in Barangay Tapurog on Thursday.

Barroquillo said three other bombing suspects were on the run, including the alleged mastermind in the MSU bombing.

Eight high-powered firearms were reportedly recovered at the scene.

The Army said there would be no letup in the campaign against terrorist groups.

“We call on communities to remain vigilant and collaborate with the Army and government authorities as we collectively work toward eliminating the threat posed by local terrorist groups,” the Army’s public affairs office said in a statement.