Lanao del Sur vice mayor candidate survives ambush; Two companions killed

DAVAO CITY — A vice mayoral candidate in Lanao del Sur, Ramil Bao, survived an ambush in Barangay Paigoay, Marogong, on Saturday, December 7, 2024. While Bao and two others sustained injuries, two of their companions tragically lost their lives in the attack.

Brig. Gen. Romeo Juan Macapaz, director of the Police Regional Office-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region, identified the fatalities as retired police officer Solaiman Alibasa and Hadji Asrap Sandab, both residents of Malabang.

Bao, along with fellow passengers Sanaoray Alisaba and Sarpia Mangayao, is currently receiving treatment at Serapio Montañer Hospital in Lanao del Sur.

Police investigations revealed that the victims were traveling in a red Toyota Innova on their way to Malabang when gunmen, riding in a gray vehicle of the same model, opened fire on them.

The authorities have yet to determine the motive behind the attack.

Brig. Gen. Macapaz has directed the Lanao del Sur Provincial Police Office to collaborate with local officials in identifying those responsible and ensuring they are held accountable.