Lawyer killed, fiancé wounded in Maguindanao del Norte shooting

DAVAO CITY — The Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) Cotabato Chapter has condemned the fatal shooting of Atty. Junisa D. Kimamao, CPA, and the wounding of her fiancé, Atty. Ibrahim D. Pendatu, LPT, in Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte, on March 17, 2025.

Kimamao sustained multiple gunshot wounds and died at the scene, while Pendatu remains hospitalized. The couple, both young lawyers, were preparing for their wedding later this month.

Police Captain Annaliza Aguilar, spokesperson for the Maguindanao del Norte Police Provincial Office, said the attack was carried out by four suspects on two motorcycles, a blue Suzuki Raider and a black Honda XRM. CCTV footage showed the assailants following the victims before opening fire.

“We call on anyone with information to coordinate with the police to help resolve this incident,” Aguilar said.

In a statement, the IBP Cotabato Chapter expressed grief and outrage, calling the attack an “affront to justice and the rule of law.” The organization urged authorities to investigate and bring the perpetrators to justice thoroughly.

The attack is the latest in a string of violent incidents in Maguindanao del Norte. In January, a police officer and a tricycle driver were ambushed in Barangay Awang, and in February, Datu Piang Vice Mayor Jamar Matalam was shot and wounded.

The IBP, civil society groups, and local leaders have called for heightened security measures to protect the region’s legal professionals and public officials. Authorities are continuing the investigation into the attack.