[1] On May 23, 2017, a five-month-long battle between Philippine government security forces against militants affiliated with the Islamic State (IS), including the Maute and Abu Sayyaf Salafi jihadist groups began when a government operation to capture Isnilon Hapilon, an Abu Sayyaf commander, triggered a massive firefight.

Tinangag was an assistant automatic rifleman with the Special Operations Platoon (SOP), Marine Battalion Landing Team (MBLT)-5.

813 dated May 31, 2021 noted, "Through his outstanding bravery and unflinching determination in the face great adversity during the five-hour intense and deadly battle against the ISIS-inspired Local Terrorist Group – Maute, PFC Tinangag selflessly and single handedly saved the lives of four Marines and extricated one killed in action in exchange for his own life.

His selfless sacrifice raised the morale of troops to valiantly advanced in a ferocious battle and subsequently liberated Marawi City from the terrorists.

By singular display of heroism, Private First Class Gener C Tinangag distinguished himself in combat, keeping with the traditions of Filipino soldiery.