One person was killed and another injured in an ambush along a national highway in Datu Unsay, Maguindanao del Sur, authorities said.
Initial information showed the vehicle involved in the attack was owned by a sibling of Shariff Aguak Mayor Datu Akmad Ampatuan.
Authorities identified the fatality as Datu Gara Ampatuan, a nephew of Mayor Mitra Ampatuan. Injured in the attack was the mayor’s younger brother, identified as Datu Mama Ampatuan.
Police said the victims were on their way back to the town of Shariff Aguak from Cotabato City aboard a black vehicle when armed men of undetermined number opened fire on their vehicle upon reaching the area.
The driver managed to seek assistance at a military checkpoint nearby after the attack, allowing authorities to respond to the incident.
The injured victim was given medical attention while authorities secured the area and began an investigation into the ambush.
Officials have not yet released information on possible motives behind the attack or identified the suspects involved.
A hot pursuit operation is ongoing as law enforcement units continue efforts to track down those responsible for the shooting.
Authorities said they are coordinating with security forces in the area as part of the search for the suspects.
The ambush occurred along a major highway in the province, prompting heightened security measures as investigators work to gather evidence and determine the circumstances surrounding the attack.
