Four Philippine Army (PA) personnel were killed in an ambush perpetrated by suspected members of the Dawlah Islamiyah (DI) in Datu Hoffer Ampatuan, Maguindanao del Sur on Sunday morning, March 17, marring the sixth day of Ramadan.

The slain troops belonged to the 40th Infantry Battalion of the 6th Infantry Division (6ID), according to Army chief Lt. Gen. Roy Galido.

"The Philippine Army condemns the senseless, treacherous and most heinous acts perpetrated by this terrorist group. The Army is committed to ensuring that the perpetrators face the full consequences of their actions and that justice will be served for the victims and their families," Galido said.

According to a military report, the troops were heading back to their patrol base on board a civilian vehicle after buying supplies for "iftar" at a market in Cotabato City when the DI fighters ambushed them near a residential area in Barangay Tuayan Mother around 10 a.m.

Iftar refers to the fast-breaking evening meal of Muslims during Ramadan. The soldiers were supposed to distribute the food supplies to the Muslim civilians that were fasting near their patrol base.

"We are working closely with local authorities and community leaders to ensure that security measures in the area are sustained. This incident only strengthens our resolve to eradicate this terrorist group from our land once and for all," Galido said.

The identities of the slain troops were not divulged pending notice of their families. Two of them were privates, one was a private first class, and one was a corporal.

"We also stand in solidarity with the families of our four fallen heroes who paid the ultimate sacrifice. Appropriate benefits and assistance will be provided to their families to help them during this trying time," Galido said.

The   Dawlah Islamiyah has been the subject of intense military offensives in the previous months. In February, six soldiers died and three DI members died in an encounter in Munai, Lanao del Norte.