MANILA – There would be swift justice for the four soldiers ambushed at Datu Hoffer Ampatuan in Maguindanao del Sur on Sunday, according to President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.
The Chief Executive condemned the ambush staged by suspected members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters.
“We strongly condemn the cowardly ambush that targeted four of our courageous soldiers,” Marcos said in a statement on Monday. “This despicable act only to strengthens our resolve to eradicate terrorism from the region and our entire nation.”
“We remain resolute in our pledge to ensure that justice is swiftly served for our fallen heroes,” he added. “Let this tragic event unite us in our unwavering commitment for a safer, stronger, and insurgency-free Philippines.”
President Marcos has also ordered immediate provision of benefits and assistance to support the families of the slain soldiers.
According to the Philippine Army’s 6th Infantry Division, the soldiers were killed while onboard a civilian vehicle on their way back to the patrol base in Tuayan 1, Datu Hoffer, Maguindanao del Sur at 10 a.m. on Sunday.
The victims were returning from buying food for Iftar for the Muslim community in their area, which they often did during Ramadan period.
Meanwhile, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief General Romero Brawner Jr. said the military will immediately hunt down the suspects behind the killing of the soldier.
“The AFP vows to hunt down the perpetrators and neutralize these ruthless killers to finally put a stop to their violent acts that disrupt peace and stability in the region,” Brawner said on Monday.
“We assure the Filipinos that your Armed Forces of the Philippines is firm on its resolve to perform our mandate of protecting the people and the state,” he added./PN
