Manila: Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua has affirmed his commitment to pursuing peace, following an ambush on his convoy that occurred on a national highway in Barangay Bitu, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte.
According to Philippines News Agency, the attack took place on Saturday at 4:45 p.m. and involved gunfire directed at Macacua's convoy. Despite the severity of the situation, Macacua and his staff emerged unharmed, though his vehicles sustained bullet damage. In his statement, Macacua emphasized that this ordeal would not deter the region's democratic progress or the upcoming Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections, slated for September 14.
Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) Secretary Mel Senen Sarmiento joined in condemning the attack, stressing that it should not impede the peace process. He highlighted the significance of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro and the Bangsamoro Organic Law as frameworks for achieving democratic goals. Sarmiento called for a peaceful and credible electoral process, urging restraint and adherence to the rule of law.
Sarmiento expressed relief over Macacua's safety and emphasized the need for a thorough investigation to hold those responsible accountable. Additionally, he appealed for public support in ensuring that the elections proceed without incident, in line with directives from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairperson George Garcia has tasked the Philippine National Police and the Armed Forces of the Philippines with identifying and apprehending the culprits. He underscored the importance of maintaining peace and order, ensuring that constitutional rights are upheld throughout the investigation.
The attack has elicited widespread condemnation from various groups and officials. Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) chairman Al Haj Murad Ebrahim and the Army's 6th Infantry Division both denounced the violence, calling for an impartial investigation. Brig. Gen. Ricky Bunayog of the 6ID and BARMM police chief Brig. Gen. Christopher Abecia echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the threat such acts pose to regional stability.
Muslimin Sema, leader of a Moro National Liberation Front faction and BARMM labor minister, also condemned the attack, highlighting its potential to disrupt the peace process. The incident is under active investigation, with authorities working to determine the motive and identify suspects.
