BARMM Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua strongly condemned the ambush on his convoy on Saturday, August 15.

The ambush took place in Barangay Bitu, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte, while the chief minister was on his way back from an event in Barangay Gambar, Kabuntalan.

The official survived unharmed, and no injuries were reported among his companions.

In his official statement, Macacua condemned the attack as an act of cowardice, saying it reflects the harsh reality that much still needs to be done to achieve genuine and lasting peace in BARMM.

Nonetheless, he emphasized that this will not weaken their commitment to democratic progress, particularly the determination to hold the first Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections on September 14.

He stressed that violence and weapons will not dictate the future of the region.

He also appealed to the public to remain calm and avoid baseless speculation while authorities conduct a thorough investigation.

Macacua assured that the entire Bangsamoro government remains stable and operational, and that he will continue to carry out his duties for the people.

Meanwhile, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) has been tasked to determine who was behind the attack.

Comelec said that whether or not the incident is related to the elections, maintaining peace and order in the area remains the top priority.

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