A fatal ambush occurred on Saturday in Barangay Lamin, Malabang, Lanao del Sur, resulting in the deaths of a soldier and a public school teacher. The incident is currently being investigated by police and local executives, who are working to identify the perpetrators and bring them to justice. The ambush happened when gunmen opened fire on a white Toyota Hilux pick-up truck carrying the soldier and his companions. A tricycle trailing the vehicle was also targeted, resulting in the death of a school teacher.
The soldier, Cpl. Jayson S. Castro, was a member of the Army's 64th Infantry Battalion and died instantly from bullet wounds sustained during the ambush. His companions, who were also targeted, managed to return fire and forced the assailants to flee. The civilian driver of the pick-up truck, Richard Estomen, was wounded in the incident and is currently being treated in a hospital. The teacher, Hapipa S. Macadato, was a passenger on the tricycle and was killed in the attack.
Lanao del Sur Governor Mamintal A. Adiong, Jr. has expressed his support for the ongoing investigation and is offering a monetary incentive to anyone who can provide information leading to the identification of the gunmen. Governor Adiong is optimistic that the perpetrators will be identified soon, citing the cooperation between the Malabang Municipal Police Station and local leaders. The investigation is being conducted by police investigators and intelligence operatives, who are working to gather evidence and build a case against the ambushers.
The incident has sparked a call for justice, with officials vowing to bring the perpetrators to account for their actions. The cooperation between the police and local leaders is seen as a crucial step in resolving the case and providing closure for the families of the victims. The ongoing investigation is expected to continue in the coming days, with officials working to piece together the events surrounding the ambush and identify those responsible.
