Marcos vows justice for slain troopers in Maguindanao del Sur ambush

MANILA, Philippines — President Marcos has condemned the killing of four Army soldiers in an attack by suspected terrorists in Maguindanao del Sur on Sunday.

Marcos vows justice for the slain troopers and described the ambush as a “cowardly” act.

“This despicable act only strengthens our resolve to eradicate terrorism from the region and our entire nation,” Marcos said in a post on X on Monday.

The fatalities belonged to the Army’s 40th Infantry Battalion.

“Under my administration, we remain resolute in our pledge to ensure that justice is swiftly served for our fallen heroes,” the President said.

He said he ordered the immediate provision of benefits and assistance to the families of the slain troopers.

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

The soldiers and their companions were on their way to their command post when a group of terrorists believed belonging to Dawlah Islamiya waylaid them in Barangay Tuayan.

The troopers were declared dead on arrival at the nearby Maguindanao Provincial Hospital.