BIFF leader in Maguindanao del Norte killed in clash with cops, soldiers

COTABATO CITY — The military in Maguindanao del Norte announced on Sunday the neutralization of a leader of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) who was allegedly behind atrocities against civilians and military forces in the province.

Lt. Col. Ronald Suscano, spokesperson for the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, identified the slain local terrorist leader as Esmael Abubakar, alias “Commander Bungos,” who was killed during a joint law enforcement operation at about 2 a.m. Sunday, July 5, in Barangay Calzada, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao del Norte.

“He was alone in his hideout. He opened fire at lawmen approaching his location,” Suscano told the Inquirer in a phone interview.

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Suscano, who also commands the 6th Civil Military Operations Battalion, said government forces received a tip from civilians. After validation and confirmation, operating units of the 6th Infantry Division and the Maguindanao del Norte Police Office launched the operation to serve the warrant.

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“He has about 10 or 12 armed followers and used to operate in Maguindanao del Sur,” Suscano said, adding that several of his subordinates have already surrendered to the government.

Suscano said Commander Bungos has warrants of arrest for murder, multiple murder, and destructive arson.

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“This successful operation is a result of coordination between civilians and government forces and between the PNP and the military,” Suscano added.

He said the neutralization of Abubakar is expected to weaken the BIFF-Bungos Faction’s operations and help maintain security, particularly in the lead-up to the 2026 Bangsamoro parliamentary elections in September. /mcm

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