‘DESPICABLE’ | Marcos condemns killing of four soldiers in ambush in Maguindanao del Sur

March 18, 2024 , 12:55 PM

By Beatrice Puente

(March 18, 2024) – President Bongbong Marcos Jr. condemned the ambush that killed four soldiers in Maguindanao del Sur on Sunday.

In a post on X on Monday, Marcos once again asked the nation to unite to “prevail against these acts of violence.”

“This despicable act only strengthens our resolve to eradicate terrorism from the region and our entire nation,” wrote Marcos. “Let this tragic event unite us in our unwavering commitment for a safer, stronger, and insurgency-free Philippines.”

We strongly condemn the cowardly ambush that targeted four of our courageous soldiers in Maguindanao del Sur on March 17.

This despicable act only to strengthens our resolve to eradicate terrorism from the region and our entire nation.

Under my administration, we remain…

— Bongbong Marcos (@bongbongmarcos) March 18, 2024

He added that they are closely coordinating with the authorities and the bereaved families following the tragic event.

“We remain resolute in our pledge to ensure that justice is swiftly served for our fallen heroes. I have instructed the immediate provision of benefits and assistance to support the families they leave behind,” said Marcos.

It was reported that the four soldiers were part of the 40th Infantry Battalion of the 6th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army.

In its statement, the Philippine Army confirmed the ambush in Datu Hoffer Ampatuan, noting that it was believed to have been perpetrated by members of the Dawlah Islamiyah – Hassan Group.

“The soldiers were heading back to their patrol base after buying supplies when the perpetrators ambushed them near a residential area in Barangay Tuayan Mother. We are working closely with local authorities and community leaders to ensure that security measures in the area are sustained,” said the Philippine Army.

It added that it will ensure accountability over the fatal incident.

“The Philippine Army condemns the senseless, treacherous and most heinous acts perpetrated by this terrorist group. The Army is committed to ensuring that the perpetrators face the full consequences of their actions and that justice will be served for the victims and their families,” it added.

In a separate statement, the Maguindanao del Sur provincial government criticized the violent attack that coincided with Ramadan, known as the ninth month of the Islamic calendar marked by fasting and prayer for Muslims. It started last March 12, per the declaration of the Bangsamoro Darul-Ifta’.

“Ito ay malinaw na paglalapastangan sa sagradong buwan ng Rahmadan at taliwas sa kapayapaang isinusulong ng probinsya,” read the statement of the province, which is headed by Gov. Bai Mariam Sangki-Mangudadatu.

The provincial government also reiterated its call to address all forms of violence.

Last year, acting presidential peace adviser Sec. Isidro Purisima claimed that the administration aims to “sustain the gains of peace” over the past years. But progressive groups stressed that the government must do more to bring about genuine peace.

“Hangad namin ang agarang hustisya para sa mga biktima at agad na pagkahuli sa sino mang nasa likod ng karahasang ito,” added the Maguindanao del Sur provincial government.

(PM)

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