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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider PBBM condemns ambush on Shariff Aguak mayor, orders swift action to protect officials

PBBM condemns ambush on Shariff Aguak mayor, orders swift action to protect officials

Published Jan 26, 2026 02:22 pm
File photos
File photos
President Marcos has condemned the ambush on Shariff Aguak Mayor Akmad Ampatuan in Maguindanao del Sur, ordering security agencies to act swiftly to maintain peace and protect local officials, Malacañang said Monday.
Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary Claire Castro said the President immediately directed the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) to respond following the attack, which occurred despite earlier calls for unity ahead of elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
“Unang-una po, kinokondena po ng Pangulo ang nangyaring iyan (First of all, the President condemns what happened),” she said in her press briefing on Monday, Jan. 26.
She added that the DILG and PNP acted without delay, with Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla commending the prompt response of the Police Regional Office–BARMM.
Castro said the government will continue to strengthen peace and order efforts in BARMM, particularly as the region moves closer to the elections.
“Mananatili po na palalawigin ng DILG at ng pamahalaang ito ang peace and order (The DILG and this government will continue to intensify peace and order efforts),” she said.
The Palace Press Officer urged residents to remain vigilant and immediately report suspicious activities to authorities to ensure adequate protection.
“Kung mayroon po kayong nakikitang kakaibang aksiyon o kahina-hinala, ipagbigay-alam lamang po kaagad sa mga awtoridad (If you see unusual or suspicious actions, immediately inform the authorities),” Castro said.
Mayor Ampatuan escaped unharmed when his two-vehicle convoy was ambushed around 6:30 a.m. on Sunday in Barangay Poblacion, Shariff Aguak, according to police and local officials.
Ampatuan was riding a bulletproof sports utility vehicle when gunmen opened fire, also hitting a backup pickup truck, his office said.
Two security escorts sustained non-life-threatening injuries and were taken to the Bangsamoro Regional and Medical Center in Datu Hoffer Ampatuan for treatment.
Authorities said three alleged ambushers were killed during a pursuit operation by a joint police and Army team.
The suspects were reportedly aboard a white minivan, where police later recovered high-powered firearms.
The motive behind the attack remains under investigation as of posting time.

Related Tags

President Marcos Bongbong Marcos Claire Castro Ambush Shariff Aguak
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