AFP vows to pursue attackers of BARMM chief minister

MANILA – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Sunday vowed to pursue those behind the attack on the convoy of Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Interim Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua, as security forces step up measures ahead of the region’s first parliamentary elections on Sept. 14.

The AFP strongly condemned the attack in Barangay Bitu, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte on Saturday.

“The AFP will pursue the perpetrators and work closely with the Philippine National Police, Commission on Elections, and other concerned agencies to identify those responsible and ensure that they are held accountable under the law,” AFP chief Gen. Antonio Nafarrete said in a statement.

Macacua was unharmed in the attack, which occurred at around 4:45 p.m. as his convoy was traveling toward Cotabato City from Kabuntalan, where he attended an event of the Bangsamoro Federalist Party.

His armored vehicle was hit by several bullets, including one on the driver’s side, while two other armored vehicles in the convoy also sustained bullet strikes.

The convoy continued to the Bangsamoro Government Center in Cotabato City following the attack.

The AFP said security forces have intensified their presence in vulnerable areas and along major routes in the region following the incident.

The Philippine Army likewise condemned the attack and called on political leaders, candidates and communities to reject violence and uphold the democratic process, stressing that Bangsamoro voters must be able to exercise their right to vote “freely, safely, and without fear.”

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. earlier said a credible, transparent and peaceful September election would be a “huge step forward” for the Bangsamoro regional government, as the electoral exercise will give voters the opportunity to choose the members of the region’s first elected parliament.

The AFP said it remains committed to protecting communities, preserving peace and order.

“The people of Bangsamoro can exercise their right to vote freely and without fear,” Nafarrete said.

With Priam F. Nepomuceno/PNA