A COMELEC officer and his wife were shot dead Wednesday morning while traveling along the national highway in Barangay Makir, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao Del Norte.
The victims, identified as Maceda Abo, a Commission on Elections officer, and his wife Jojo Abo, were aboard their SUV when two gunmen on a motorcycle approached and opened fire. The suspects used an unidentified firearm in the attack, which occurred past 8 a.m.
Jojo Abo died on the spot after sustaining gunshot wounds to the head and body. Her husband was rushed to a hospital but later succumbed to his injuries.
Authorities have yet to determine the motive behind the attack, and the identities of the assailants remain unknown.
Mayor Datu Lester Sinsuat condemned the killing, calling it a “senseless act” and urging authorities to expedite the investigation. He also appealed for public cooperation to help bring the perpetrators to justice.
“This is a senseless killing, especially as we observe the Holy Month of Ramadan,” Sinsuat said in a statement.
Local law enforcement is conducting further investigations, with checkpoints set up to track the suspects. Authorities urge anyone with information to come forward.
The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) has recommended placing Datu Odin Sinsuat under its control ahead of the May 12 midterm elections.
