Marcos decries Maguindanao ambush; orders aid for kin of fallen soldiers

PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. condemned on Monday the ambush perpetrated by suspected Dawlah Islamiya (DI) terrorists in Datu Hoffer Ampatuan, Maguindanao del Sur that killed four soldiers.

In a statement shared on his X (formerly Twitter) account, Marcos said the “despicable act” only strengthens the government’s “resolve to eradicate terrorism from the region and our entire nation.”

“We strongly condemn the cowardly ambush that targeted four of our courageous soldiers in Maguindanao del Sur on March 17,” he said.

Marcos ordered the immediate provision of assistance to the families of the fallen soldiers.

“Under my administration, we remain resolute in our pledge to ensure that justice is swiftly served for our fallen heroes. I have instructed the immediate provision of benefits and assistance to support the families they leave behind,” Marcos added.

“Let this tragic event unite us in our unwavering commitment for a safer, stronger, and insurgency-free Philippines. Together, we shall prevail against these acts of violence.”

The four soldiers were heading back to base around 10 a.m. on Sunday after purchasing food and office supplies when they were attacked.