Flags at Half Mast Mourn Engineer’s Death
The Philippine flag was flown at half mast at the municipal hall and police station of Shariff Saydona Mustapha town in Maguindanao del Sur on Thursday. This solemn act honored the municipal engineer who was killed in an ambush the night before. The tragic incident shocked the local officials and community deeply.
Town and police officials strongly condemned the killing of Engr. Syed Ariff Malang, who served as the municipal engineer of Shariff Saydona Mustapha. The attack happened past 6 p.m. on Wednesday, leaving the town mourning the loss of a dedicated public servant.
“In deep sorrow and respect, the PNP and the municipality mourn the tragic death of (Malang), a valued and dedicated employee of the local government unit,” said Capt. Ralph Waldy Bunag, the town police officer-in-charge. He emphasized that this senseless violence is firmly condemned by both the police and municipal government.
Bunag assured the community and Malang’s family that justice would be sought with urgency and determination. Flying the national flag at half mast symbolizes their collective grief and recognition of Malang’s service to the municipality.
Strong Condemnation from Local Leaders
Shariff Saydona Mustapha Mayor Sajid Andre S. Ampatuan also expressed strong condemnation over the killing. Malang is the second public official targeted by unknown assailants since March 17, following the murder of the town’s municipal accountant.
“This heinous act is not only a tragic loss for his family and our community but also a direct assault on those who dedicate their lives to public service,” the mayor said. He added that targeting public officials is intolerable and called for swift action from law enforcement.
Mayor Ampatuan urged authorities to take all necessary legal steps to identify, arrest, and prosecute those responsible for this unforgivable crime. He further called for stronger protections for public servants to prevent similar attacks in the future.
Details of the Ambush Incident
Malang, who lived in Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao del Sur, was declared dead upon arrival at Maguindanao provincial hospital. Rescuers rushed him there after the ambush took place in Barangay Timbangan, Shariff Aguak at around 6:15 p.m., sources said.
According to Colonel Sultan Salman Sapal, provincial police director, Malang was driving a black Chevrolet pick-up with three passengers on their way to Shariff Aguak when unidentified men attacked them. Despite his injuries, Malang managed to drive to a paramilitary detachment to seek help. Militiamen there quickly rushed him to the hospital.
One of Malang’s companions was wounded, while two others escaped unharmed. This attack follows the March 17 killing of Lawyer Junisa Kimamao, a CPA and the town’s municipal accountant, who was ambushed in Datu Odin Sinsuat town. Kimamao’s fiancé survived the assault with injuries.
Community Calls for Justice and Safety
The series of attacks against public officials has stirred concern among local leaders and residents. They emphasize the need for stronger security measures and swift justice to protect those who serve the public.
For more news and updates on Maguindanao del Sur, visit Filipinokami.com.
