The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) have called for restraint after armed men fired at the convoy of Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Interim Chief Minister Abdulraof A. Macacua in Maguindanao del Norte on Saturday, Aug. 15.

The 6th Infantry (Kampilan) Division strongly condemned the strafing of Macacua’s convoy along the National Highway in Barangay Bitu, Datu Odin Sinsuat at around 4:44 p.m.

Initial information showed that the attackers fled in an unknown direction after the incident while the convoy proceeded toward Cotabato City.

“The 6ID assures the public that it is closely coordinating with the Philippine National Police and other relevant authorities to secure the area and support a thorough investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident,” Brig. Gen. Ricky P. Bunayog, acting commander of 6ID, said.

The military said the attack must not be allowed to affect peace and security in BARMM, particularly as the region prepares for the inaugural parliamentary elections on Sept. 14.

“The Division emphasizes that any attack on public officials, government personnel, or civilians is unacceptable and must not undermine peace, security, and stability in the Bangsamoro region,” Bunayog said.

Meanwhile, OPAPRU Secretary Mel Senen S. Sarmiento expressed relief that Macacua and members of his delegation were unharmed in the attack.

“We are relieved that Chief Minister Macacua and members of his delegation are safe. We call on everyone to remain calm, refrain from speculation or assigning responsibility, and allow the proper authorities to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation. Those responsible must be held accountable in accordance with the law,” he said.

Sarmiento urged political groups and the public not to allow the incident to fuel tension or violence as the Bangsamoro prepares for an important political exercise.

The peace adviser said the Bangsamoro peace process had been built over decades through dialogue and sacrifice. He cited the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro and the Bangsamoro Organic Law as the framework for pursuing autonomy and lasting peace through democratic means.

“As the Bangsamoro approaches an important political exercise, all stakeholders share a responsibility to help ensure an environment where all political parties, candidates, supporters, and voters can participate freely and safely. A peaceful, credible, and democratic election will strengthen confidence in Bangsamoro institutions, consolidate the gains of the peace process, and contribute to greater stability and economic opportunity,” Sarmiento said.

“We urge everyone to exercise restraint and respect the rule of law. No individual or group should take the law into their own hands or allow political differences, anger, or unverified information to create further tension or violence. The investigation must be allowed to establish the facts independently and objectively,” he added.