MANILA — In a firm stance against violence targeting educators in the region, the Ministry of Basic, Higher, and Technical Education (MBHTE) of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) has denounced the recent ambush on Mamadatu Dalandas.
The 39-year-old school head of Datu Tecson Elementary School in Sultan sa Barongis town, Maguindanao del Sur, fell victim to unidentified gunmen in Barangay Manongkaling, Mamasapano, on Monday (22 Jan 2024).
Expressing deep concern, Mohagher Iqbal, head of the MBHTE, issued a statement urging authorities to conduct a thorough and prompt investigation, emphasizing the need for justice to prevail. The motive behind the attack remains unknown, with ongoing investigations led by Lt. Lou Christian Villoñes, the municipal police chief.
Dalandas’ tragic fate follows similar incidents in the region, as he becomes the second headteacher in Sultan sa Barongis to be targeted in the past three months and the third in BARMM since May 2023.
The education ministry unequivocally declares that acts of violence have no place within educational institutions, standing resolute against such brutal incidents.
As the educational community mourns this loss, the BARMM calls for a swift resolution to the investigation, underscoring their commitment to ensuring the safety of educators within the region.
(By el Amigo/MNM)