The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) condemned the attack on the convoy of interim Bangsamoro Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua and warned that violence could undermine peace and confidence in the region’s political process.
Macacua’s convoy was fired upon on Saturday afternoon, August 15, in Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte. He and his delegation were unharmed, although three armored vehicles were hit by bullets.
The convoy continued to the Bangsamoro Government Center after the incident, where Macacua and his companions arrived safely.
OPAPRU Secretary Mel Senen Sarmiento urged the public to remain calm and avoid speculation while authorities investigated the attack. He said those responsible should be identified and held accountable through legal processes.
Sarmiento said the incident came at a sensitive time as the Bangsamoro region prepared for an important political exercise, making security and public confidence especially critical.
He added that a peaceful and credible election would help preserve gains from the peace process, strengthen Bangsamoro institutions and support long-term stability in the region.
Brig. Gen. Ricky Bunayog, acting commander of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, also condemned the attack and said the military was coordinating with police to help determine who was behind it.
Police Regional Office-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region chief Brig. Gen. Christopher Abecia said the investigation remained underway to establish the identities of the attackers, their motive and the full circumstances surrounding the shooting.