The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) strongly denounces the brazen attack against a former mayor of Lumbaca-Unayan, Lanao del Sur, who was shot in broad daylight on 26 February 2025. The victim was pronounced dead on arrival after being ambushed outside their residence by unidentified gunmen.

The CHR has launched a Quick Response Operation (QRO) to investigate this incident and determine whether it was politically motivated.

We recognize the efforts of law enforcement agencies in addressing this act of violence. However, such incidents highlight the urgent need for heightened protection measures and swift action to ensure that perpetrators are held accountable. Given the recent ambush attempt on another vice mayor in Datu Piang, Maguindanao del Sur, we raise alarm over the rising security concerns faced by local officials in the area.[1]

The continued attacks against local officials, if left unaddressed, foster a culture of fear among constituents and voters. This chilling effect on our electoral system undermines the democratic process and hinders the country’s progress toward peace and security.

The Commission firmly upholds that violence has no place in a democratic society. Acts of brutality and lawlessness undermine peace, stability, and the fundamental rights of all individuals. ###

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[1] Statement of the Commission on Human Rights denouncing the attempted ambush against a vice mayor in Maguindanao del Sur | 06 March 2025, https://chr.gov.ph/statement-of-the-commission-on-human-rights-denouncing-the-attempted-ambush-against-a-vice-mayor-in-maguindanao-del-sur/