VP Duterte condemns ambush of 4 soldiers in Lanao del Norte
Vice President Sara Duterte (MB File Photo)
Vice President Sara Duterte has condemned the ambush that killed four soldiers in Lanao del Norte, which she said is a challenge for the state regarding peace and security.
Duterte, in a statement over the weekend, called on all relevant agencies in the country not to stop working until justice is brought to four Philippine Army troops killed by members of Dawlah Islamiyah-Maute Group (DI-MG) in the municipality of Munai on Friday, Jan. 23.
The government must also ensure the safety and security of Filipinos against threats of criminality, terrorism, and other forms of terror, Duterte added.
"Mariin nating kinokondena ang pananambang ng isang teroristang grupo sa Munai, Lanao del Norte na ikinasawi ng apat na miyembro ng ating Sandatahang Lakas noong Biyernes, Enero 23, 2026 (We strongly condemn the ambush by a terrorist group in Munai, Lanao del Norte that killed four members of the Philippine Army on Friday, Jan. 23, 2026)," she said.
"Magtulungan tayo at huwag nating hayaang maghari ang mga kriminal sa ating mga komunidad. Tandaan natin na sa peace and order nakasandal ang ating kalayaan at ang kaunlaran ng ating bansa (Let us work together and not allow criminals to rule over our communities. Let us remember that our freedom and our country's progress depend on peace and order)," she added.
On behalf of the Office of the Vice President, Duterte expressed her sympathies with the bereaved families and with the whole Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) after losing four brave members.
"Ang kanilang kabayanihan at sakripisyo sa paglilingkod sa bayan ay hindi kailanman malilimutan. Nawa’y manatili tayong matatag at magkaisa laban sa terorismo (Their heroism and sacrifice in serving the nation will never be forgotten. May we remain steadfast and united against terrorism)," she said.