1st Infantry "Tabak" Division, Philippine Army

26/05/2026

23/05/2026

“TABAK Division on Marawi at 9: Vigilance, Unity, and the Unyielding Fight Against Terrorism”

CAMP SANG-AN, ZDS — On the 9th Anniversary of the Marawi Crisis, the 1st Infantry (TABAK) Division, Philippine Army stands with the Filipino people in remembering one of the darkest chapters in recent history — a brutal reminder of the destruction, displacement, and bloodshed inflicted by violent extremism and terrorism.

The Marawi Siege of 2017 was marked by senseless killings, barbaric acts of terror, and the ruthless targeting of innocent civilians. These atrocities exposed the true face of extremist ideology — a campaign of fear, cruelty, and death that has no place in our communities or our future. The Division condemns in the strongest and most uncompromising terms these murders and acts of terror, declaring that such inhumanity will never be tolerated nor forgotten.

Nine years on, while significant gains have been achieved in securing stability, the threat of violent extremism persists. The 1st Infantry (TABAK) Division emphasizes that safeguarding peace is a shared responsibility — of government agencies, local leaders, communities, families, and every Filipino. Unity, vigilance, and collective action are essential to ensure that terrorism and its murderous agenda never take root again.

The Division reiterates the importance of sustaining whole-of-nation efforts through active community engagement, information awareness, youth empowerment, and strengthened cooperation among stakeholders. By rejecting extremist influence and standing firm against killings and terrorism, the nation ensures that the tragedy of Marawi will never be repeated.

As the country remembers Marawi, the Tabak Troopers stands resolute with the Filipino people in reaffirming its commitment to protect communities, preserve peace, and uphold justice — ensuring that terrorism and its senseless killings will never prevail over the will of a united nation.

17/05/2026

CRIMINAL GANG LEADER AND MEMBER SURRENDER, 55 LOOSE FI****MS SEIZED IN JTF ZAMPELAN

CAMP SANG-AN, ZDS — Government forces and local government units intensified the implementation of the Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) Management Program in the JTF ZAMPELAN area of operations, resulting in the turnover, voluntary surrender, and confiscation of numerous loose fi****ms during coordinated operations conducted on May 5, 7, 9, 12 and 13, 2026.

On May 5, 2026, the LGUs of Marogong, Lumbaca-Unayan, Pagayawan, Lumbatan, and Binidayan in Lanao del Sur facilitated the voluntary surrender of 22 loose fi****ms to the 64th Infantry Battalion under the SALW Program. Formally turned over to Brig. Gen. Yasser R. Bara, Commander of the 101st Infantry Brigade, during a ceremony at 64IB headquarters, the cache included M16, M4, M14, Garand, and Carbine rifles, improvised sniper rifles including a caliber .50 variant, a TEC-KG9 submachine gun, and pistols. The accomplishment was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the LGUs and 64IB led by Lt. Col. Jerry B. Gaviola, with support from company commanders and MCSSP teams.

Likewise, the 97th Infantry Battalion, under the leadership of Lt.Col Jessie Bergonia and in coordination with local officials and the ZDN 2nd PMFC, facilitated the voluntary surrender of two fi****ms and explosives by former MNLF members in Labason, Zamboanga del Norte on May 7, 2026. The surrendered items included a US Carbine M3 rifle, an improvised shotgun, and a hand gr***de.

In a separate law enforcement operation on May 9, 2026, troops of the 51st Mechanized Company, 5th Mechanized Battalion together with police and intelligence units, successfully implemented a search warrant in Sultan Naga Dimaporo, Lanao del Norte, leading to the arrest of a suspect for violation of Republic Act 10591. Authorities confiscated five assorted fi****ms, ammunition, magazines, firearm parts, and gun paraphernalia.

Meanwhile, in Masiu, Lanao del Sur, the municipal government led by Mayor Romil M. Guiling formally turned over 24 loose fi****ms to Brig. Gen. Billy O. Dela Rosa, Commander of JTG HARIBON, during a ceremony at the municipal gymnasium on May 12, 2026. The accomplishment was facilitated through the efforts of the 5th Infantry Battalion under Lt. Col. Mark Francis N. Garcia, local officials, and barangay leaders. Recovered fi****ms included high-powered rifles, five pistols, two improvised sniper rifles, six shotguns, and seven revolvers.

In a separate development in Zamboanga Sibugay Province, two members of the Labain Criminal Group (LCG), including its leader Yasher Indal Hassan alias “Almain Apidol Labain,” voluntarily surrendered to troops of the 106th Infantry Battalion under Lt. Col. Ezrael Oloan on May 13, 2026 in Tungawan, Zamboanga Sibugay Province, as part of the government’s sustained peace and security efforts in the area. The surrender also resulted in the turnover of one M16A1 rifle and one 9mm KG9 firearm.

Maj. Gen. Yegor Rey P. Barroquillo Jr., Commander of the 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division and JTF ZAMPELAN, commended the operating units, law enforcement agencies, and LGUs for their strong support in the campaign against criminality and loose fi****ms. He emphasized that the turnover, surrender, and confiscation of fi****ms are vital contributions to sustaining peace and strengthening security in Western Mindanao.

These accomplishments highlight the continuing collaboration among local government units, law enforcement agencies, and the Armed Forces of the Philippines in addressing criminality, proliferation of loose fi****ms and strengthening peace and security efforts in the Lanao provinces and Western Mindanao.

12/05/2026

1ID WELCOMES INDONESIAN ARMY DELEGATES FOR PHILINDO STRIKE VI-2026

CAMP SANG-AN, ZDS — The 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division, Philippine Army, warmly welcomed the Indonesian Army together with officers from the Headquarters Philippine Army (HPA) and Training and Doctrine Command (TRACOM) during a Courtesy Call and coordination conference held at the Hall of Flags of the Home of the Tabak Troopers, on May 11, 2026.

Col. Frans Kishin Panjaitan and his party were received by Maj. Gen. Yegor Rey P. Barroquillo Jr., Commander of the 1st Infantry Division, alongside the Division’s key military officers.

The engagement highlights the continuing partnership and strong bilateral relations between the Philippine Army and the Tentara Nasional Indonesia–Angkatan Darat (TNI-AD)/Indonesian Army, particularly in the field of territorial defense and military interoperability.

During the conference, discussions centered on the upcoming Training Activity (TA) PHILINDO STRIKE VI-2026, formerly known as Training Activity Basic Combat Training (TA BCT), an annual combined training engagement alternately hosted by the Philippine Army and the Indonesian Army. The activity aims to strengthen cooperation and enhance the operational capabilities of both Armies in Territorial Defense Operations.

In line with the directive of the Headquarters Philippine Army, the 1st Infantry Division was tasked to serve as the Unit Primary Responsible (UPR) in the formulation of the Implementing Plan (IMPLAN) and the estimation of resource requirements.

Maj. Gen. Barroquillo emphasized the importance of the activity in advancing regional security cooperation, interoperability, and mutual learning between allied forces.

“The conduct of PHILINDO STRIKE VI-2026 reflects our shared commitment to strengthening defense cooperation, improving operational readiness, and fostering enduring partnerships between the Philippine Army and the Indonesian Army,” he said.

The activity concluded with renewed commitments from both sides to ensure the successful conduct of the training exercise and to further reinforce regional peace, stability, and defense collaboration.

28/04/2026

AFP CHIEF GEN. BRAWNER COMMENDS VALOR, REINFORCES ARCHIPELAGIC DEFENSE IN ZAMPELAN

Camp Sang-an, Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur — Today, 28 April 2026, AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. visited the 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division to honor and award personnel for exemplary service and valor. His presence highlighted the AFP’s resolve to recognize every sacrifice while sustaining the operational momentum of Joint Task Force ZAMPELAN’s (1ID) campaign in Western Mindanao.

During the ceremony, General Brawner conferred awards to officers and enlisted personnel who distinguished themselves in recent operations particularly against Dawlah Islamiyah-Maute Group. He lauded their courage, discipline, and professionalism, emphasizing that their achievements reflect the enduring strength of the Tabak Division.

The visit also served as a strategic engagement, with General Brawner receiving comprehensive updates on the ongoing campaign of Joint Task Force ZAMPELAN. The task force continues to strengthen its role in both internal and external security operations, sustaining gains and safeguarding peace and stability across the region.

In his message, General Brawner reminisced on his years of service with the 1st Infantry Division, where he once served as Brigade Commander of the 103rd Infantry “Haribon” Brigade before rising to higher positions in the AFP. He likewise commended Joint Task Force ZAMPELAN, especially the awardees, for their courage and commitment to service. These contributions have been vital in advancing the campaign against lawless elements and in safeguarding peace and justice across Western Mindanao.

“My heartfelt congratulations to the awardees of Joint Task Force ZAMPELAN. Your courage, discipline, and commitment to service embody the finest traditions of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. I also commend the Division for its vital role in both internal and external security operations. These efforts form part of the AFP’s broader commitment to a comprehensive archipelagic defensive operation, securing our maritime approaches, protecting our communities, and strengthening the nation’s collective shield against emerging threats. The AFP relies on your dedication as we march forward with honor, unity, and resolve,” he said.

He urged the troops to remain professional and steadfast in their fidelity to the Philippine Constitution, reminding them to stay focused on their sworn duty and to rise above the noise of politics. The visit bolstered the ranks of Joint Task Force ZAMPELAN, ensuring that every sacrifice is honored, morale uplifted, and the AFP’s unity reaffirmed as one solid force.

26/04/2026

RECOVERED VIDEO CONFIRMS MAUTE GROUP’s ROLE IN MUNAI AMBUSH

CAMP MAJOR CESAR L. SANG-AN, Zamboanga del Sur — The 1st Infantry “Tabak” Division, Philippine Army, confirmed that members of the Dawlah-Islamiyah Maute Group (DI-MG) neutralized during law enforcement operation in Marantao, Lanao del Sur were the same armed elements responsible for the 23 January 2026 ambush of government troops in Munai, Lanao del Norte.

This confirmation was solidified through validated intelligence and the forensic exploitation of recovered materials, particularly a video retrieved from the cellular phone of a neutralized female Maute Group member during the 17 April 2026 operation in Marantao. The footage provides direct and compelling evidence of the group’s participation in the ambush of Army troops in Barangay Lininding, Munai.

The recovered video clearly depicts the involvement of the identified individuals, conclusively linking the neutralized Maute Group members to the attack. This digital evidence, combined with other recovered war materiel and intelligence reports, firmly establishes their identities and accountability.

Maj. Gen. Yegor Rey P. Barroquillo Jr., Commander of the 1st Infantry “Tabak” Division, assured the families of the fallen soldiers that justice has been served.

“This was a legitimate operation, fully compliant with rules of engagement. The Philippine Army remains steadfast in its mandate to relentlessly pursue and decisively neutralize enemies of the State, ensuring all actions are directed strictly against lawful targets. The video recovered from the cellphone of a female Maute member further reinforces that justice has been duly served for our fallen comrade,” he said.

The Philippine Army reiterates that all its operations are intelligence-driven and grounded in rigorous target validation, ensuring only legitimate threats are engaged while minimizing risks to civilians. It remains steadfast in upholding human rights and strictly adhering to International Humanitarian Law in sustaining peace and stability in Lanao.

25/04/2026

𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐃 | Army Spokesperson Col. Louie G. Dema-ala sets the record straight on the recent legitimate military operation in Toboso, Negros Occidental.

17/04/2026

JOINT TASK FORCE ZAMPELAN TROOPS NEUTRALIZE TOP DI-MAUTE LEADERS, DELIVER JUSTICE TO MUNAI AMBUSH, DEAL DEVASTATING BLOW TO TERRORISM IN LANAO

CAMP SANG-AN, ZDS — In a decisive, intelligence-driven operation, government forces under the 103rd Infantry (HARIBON) Brigade, 1st Infantry (TABAK) Division, Philippine Army, in support of CIDG, RSOT, and BARMM authorities, successfully neutralized ten (10) members of the Dawlah Islamiya–Maute Group (DI-MG) in Lanao del Sur on April 17, 2026.

The focused support to law enforcement operation, executed through close coordination with joint and inter-agency partners, resulted in the elimination of key terrorist figures, including a senior leader of the DI-MG. These individuals were directly linked to a string of violent atrocities, most notably the January 23, 2026 Munai ambush in Lanao del Norte that claimed the lives of four soldiers and left another wounded.

Government forces reported no casualties on their side. Troops recovered several fi****ms, an explosive device, and improvised explosive components from the encounter site. An infant was also safely rescued and immediately given medical attention by responding units.

This successful operation highlights the precision, discipline, and effectiveness of unified military, police, and intelligence efforts in dismantling terrorist networks and sustaining peace and order in the region.

The 103rd Infantry (HARIBON) Brigade reaffirmed its commitment to intensify operations alongside partner agencies to ensure the continued safety of communities and prevent the resurgence of extremist groups.

Brigadier General Billy Dela Rosa, Commander of the 103rd Infantry (HARIBON) Brigade, stated:
“This victory is a testament to the courage and unwavering dedication of our troops. Their actions delivered a crushing blow to the Maute Group and reflect the strength of our joint and inter-agency collaboration. We honor the sacrifices of our soldiers and remain resolute in defending our people against all threats to peace and security.”

Meanwhile, Major General Yegor Rey P. Barroquillo Jr., Commander of the 1st Infantry (TABAK) Division, emphasized the broader significance of the operation:
“Today marks a defining chapter in our campaign against terrorism in Lanao. The neutralization of the DI-Maute Group’s top leadership, the same network responsible for the Marawi siege and years of violence, demonstrates our unwavering resolve. This is not merely a tactical success; it is justice served for every fallen soldier, every grieving family, and every community that suffered under terror, including the victims of the Munai ambush. Our forces have struck a decisive blow, and we will continue forward until enduring peace is fully secured.”

By dismantling the group’s leadership core, the 1st Infantry Division has once again demonstrated its firm resolve and operational strength, delivering justice to the fallen and reinforcing its unwavering commitment to achieving lasting peace in Lanao.

16/04/2026

SERIES OF JOINT RAIDS LEAD TO ARREST OF FOUR CHINESE NATIONALS IN ZAMBOANGA PENINSULA OVER IMMIGRATION AND FRAUD OFFENSES

CAMP SANG-AN, ZDS – In two successive Joint Law Enforcement Operations (JLEO), personnel from the Intelligence Service Armed Forces of the Philippines (ISAFP) together with the Bureau of Immigration (BI) Mindanao, with the support of the troops under Joint Task Force ZAMPELAN and the Philippine National Police (PNP), successfully apprehended four (4) Chinese nationals for violations of Philippine immigration and public documentation laws.

On 14 April 2026 at 9:00 AM, authorities implemented Mission Order No. 2020-136 at UNISALES, Gov. Camins Avenue, Zamboanga City. The operation resulted in the arrest of three (3) Chinese nationals:

LIN WEIDONG, 57 years old, male, born 25 May 1969 in Fujian, PRC, holder of PRC Passport No. EC6193332.

XIE MEIYA, 54 years old, female, born 07 July 1972 in Fujian, PRC.

QIU MEIYU, 41 years old, female, born 27 October 1985 in Fujian, PRC

The arrested individuals were found to have violated Philippine immigration and public documentation laws and are liable for Undesirability under Section 3 of Operations Order No. SBM 2014-048, having posed risks to public interest, national security, and public order.

On a separate operation conducted on 16 April 2026 at 7:50 AM, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) Mindanao, together with personnel of ISAFP and other AFP units under Joint Task Force ZAMPELAN and the Philippine National Police (PNP), carried out a Joint Law Enforcement Operation (JLEO) at 3 Dragon Hardware, Brgy. Lower Taway, Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay, which resulted in the apprehension of LIN WENYU alias ANSON LAIS LIM, 52 years old, male, born 01 July 1974 in Fujian, PRC, holder of PRC Passport No. G17776266.

The subject had falsely claimed Philippine citizenship to secure government-issued IDs and corporate documents, making him liable for Undesirability under Section 3 of Operations Order No. SBM 2014-048, as well as violations of the Philippine Immigration Act of 1940 and the Revised Penal Code on falsification. Authorities also confiscated illegally smuggled goods, including exotic animals, during the operation. The apprehended individual was turned over to the Ipil Municipal Police Station for proper documentation and disposition.

Major General Yegor Rey P. Barroquillo Jr., Commander of the 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division, expressed his full support for the operations, commending the seamless coordination among the military intelligence community, Bureau of Immigration, Joint Task Force ZAMPELAN, and the Philippine National Police. He emphasized that these decisive actions reflect the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ unwavering resolve to safeguard national security, preserve public order, and ensure that the rule of law is upheld across the Zamboanga Peninsula.

These successive operations further demonstrate the AFP’s firm commitment to protecting the Filipino people and defending the integrity of the nation’s immigration system. With the Bureau of Immigration, the Philippine National Police, and partner agencies working hand in hand with AFP units under Joint Task Force ZAMPELAN, the government remains united in its mission to hold foreign nationals engaged in illegal activities fully accountable under Philippine law. This unity of purpose highlights the strength of inter-agency cooperation in confronting threats to national security and public order.

15/04/2026

TABAK DIVISION INTENSIFIES ANTI-FI****MS DRIVE, NETS MAJOR SALW GAINS AS DI-MAUTE SUPPORTER SURRENDERS

CAMP SANG-AN, ZDS — The 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division, Philippine Army, strengthened its campaign as part of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) Management Program, against the proliferation of loose fi****ms following the successful turnover and surrender of various weapons and ammunition in separate activities conducted in Lanao del Sur on April 13 and 14, 2026.

The troops of the 55th Infantry Battalion, operationally controlled by the 103rd Infantry Brigade, led by Lt. Col. Jerry V. Doldol, in partnership with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Amai Manabilang, facilitated the turnover of 17 assorted loose fi****ms and two hand gr***des, held at the Municipal Legislative Building, Amai, Manabilang, Lanao del Sur on April 14, 2026.

The turnover was witnessed by local officials and key stakeholders, including Municipal Mayor Hon. Saidamem Leo Manabilang, along with representatives from partner agencies, reflecting strong inter-agency collaboration in promoting peace and security. The recovered fi****ms included a mix of high-powered and low-powered weapons such as Garand rifles, carbines, shotguns, and submachine guns, some with defaced serial numbers.

These items are currently secured by the 55th Infantry Battalion pending proper disposition in coordination with the Provincial SALW Valuation Committee in accordance with established protocols.

In a separate development, troops of the 64th Infantry Battalion, under the leadership of their Battalion Commander Lt. Col. Jerry B. Gaviola and operating under the 101st Infantry (Three Red Arrows) Brigade of Brig. Gen. Yasser Bara, facilitated the voluntary surrender of a Dawlah Islamiyah-Maute Group (DI-MG) supporter in Bayang, Lanao del Sur on April 13, 2026.

The individual also turned over one caliber .45 pistol without serial number, one magazine, five rounds of ammunition, as well as one RPG ammunition and two RPG propellants.

Brig. Gen. Bara lauded the troops for their unwavering resolve and relentless drive, emphasizing that their steadfast efforts are crucial in bringing an end to the Maute Group and advancing lasting peace in the province.

Likewise, Brig. Gen. Billy O. Dela Rosa, Commander of the 103rd Infantry Brigade, emphasized the significance of these developments in sustaining peace in the province. He stated that the continued cooperation of LGUs and communities plays a vital role in addressing security concerns and preventing the misuse of fi****ms. He further highlighted that such initiatives contribute to building safer communities and fostering trust between the military and the civilian population.

Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Yegor Rey P. Barroquillo Jr., the Commander of the 1st Infantry Division, commended the troops and stakeholders involved for their dedication and commitment to the campaign against loose fi****ms. He emphasized that these accomplishments reflect the effectiveness of community-based approaches and inter-agency collaboration in maintaining peace and order.

He also reiterated the Division’s commitment to supporting programs that promote disarmament, reintegration, and long-term stability in conflict-affected areas.

The 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division remains steadfast in its mission to uphold peace and security in its area of responsibility, encouraging all stakeholders to actively participate in efforts that lead to a safer and more progressive community.