President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. condemned what he called a "cowardly ambush" that killed four soldiers in Datu Hoffer, Maguindanao del Sur.
"We strongly condemn the cowardly ambush that targeted four of our courageous soldiers in Maguindanao del Sur on March 17. This despicable act only strengthens our resolve to eradicate terrorism from the region and our entire nation," he said in an X (formerly Twitter) post.
We strongly condemn the cowardly ambush that targeted four of our courageous soldiers in Maguindanao del Sur on March 17.
— Bongbong Marcos (@bongbongmarcos) March 18, 2024
This despicable act only to strengthens our resolve to eradicate terrorism from the region and our entire nation.
Under my administration, we remain…
Marcos vowed swift justice for the four slain soldiers and assured that bereaved families would receive immediate benefits and assistance.
"Let this tragic event unite us in our unwavering commitment to a safer, stronger, and insurgency-free Philippines. Together, we shall prevail against these acts of violence," he ended.
On Sunday afternoon, 601st Infantry Brigade Commander Brig. Gen. Oriel Pangcog first confirmed to the media that armed men attacked the four soldiers who only went out from their patrol base to buy food for Iftar.
Philippine Army Commanding General LtGen. Roy Galido believes that the attack was launched by members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters.
Meanwhile, in a statement, Armed Forces of the Philippine Chief of Staff Romeo Brawner blamed the Dawla Islamiyah - Hassan Group members for the ambush.
He vowed to "hunt down the perpetrators and neutralize these ruthless killers" who he believes "disrupt peace and stability in the region."
