The vehicle carrying BARMM Interim Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua shows bullet holes after his convoy was ambushed in Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte, on Saturday, August 15. Photo courtesy of PNA.
Bangsamoro Interim Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua said Sunday that an attempt on his life would not derail efforts to advance peace and democratic reforms in the region.
Macacua’s convoy was attacked at around 4:45 p.m. Saturday along the highway in Barangay Bitu, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte. He and his staff were unharmed, although three vehicles, including the one he was riding in, were struck by bullets.
Macacua said the incident only reinforced his commitment to the first Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections and to ensuring that the region’s future would be shaped through democratic participation rather than violence.
He also acknowledged that the attack reflected the continuing challenges facing the Bangsamoro peace process and the need for sustained efforts to achieve lasting stability.
Moro Islamic Liberation Front chairman Al Haj Murad Ebrahim condemned the ambush and called for an immediate and impartial investigation to identify those responsible and determine the circumstances and motive behind the attack.
The Army’s 6th Infantry Division also denounced the incident. Acting commander Brig. Gen. Ricky Bunayog said the military was coordinating with police and other authorities to secure the area and assist in the investigation.
BARMM police chief Brig. Gen. Christopher Abecia likewise condemned the shooting and said investigators were working to establish the identities of the attackers and the motive behind the incident.
Muslimin Sema, chairman of a Moro National Liberation Front faction and BARMM labor minister, also denounced the attack, warning that violence could undermine gains achieved through decades of peace efforts in the region.