Barangay chairperson killed in Lanao del Sur ambush

Unidentified gunmen ambushed and killed Barangay Baraas chairperson Binhar Jalambre Alon Jawad, 25, on Tuesday morning in Lanao del Sur.

Jawad was traveling in a white Toyota Fortuner with his companion Norhan Comilao Sarip when they were attacked near Barangay Montay while en route to attend a graduation ceremony in Barangay Bacyawan.

Sarip sustained serious injuries and is currently recovering at the Serapio Montañer Memorial Hospital in Malabang, while Jawad died on arrival at the hospital.

The ambush occurred around 9:50 am as the victims were traveling to attend the graduation ceremony.

Police found several spent shells of 7.62mm rifle ammunition at the scene but have yet to determine the motive for the attack and are investigating whether it is politically motivated or tied to a clan feud.

The incident highlights the volatile security situation in Lanao del Sur, which has been flagged as one of the most dangerous provinces ahead of the upcoming elections.

Authorities and election officials are stepping up efforts to prevent violence linked to political rivalries and personal vendettas during the May elections.