A double murder charge has been filed Tuesday afternoon, April 15 at Maguindanao del Norte Provincial Prosecutor Office against a couple Gina Bano and Amin Salik.
Bano is a principal of Sarilikha Elementary School, Semba, Datu Odin Sinsuat Municipality while Salik is a UBJP Campaign Manager of Datu Odin Sinsuat Municipality.
The family condemns in the strongest possible terms this heinous and cowardly act, made even more reprehensible by its commission during the sacred Holy Month of Ramadan—a time of peace, reflection, and devotion.
"This brutal crime has not only stolen from us two beloved family members but has also sown terror in our community, striking at the very heart of our values of justice and democracy," according to Atty. Mussolini Lidasan-Sinsuat.
Lidasan, a Municipal Election Officer of Datu Odin Sinsuat, was a fearless advocate for peaceful, honest, and fair elections—a commitment she upheld with unwavering dedication.
"Their murders bear the hallmarks of a politically motivated attack, directly linked to Bai Maceda’s courageous work in safeguarding the integrity of our electoral process," Sinsuat said.
The victims’ family urged the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Law Department to look into the potential instances of election-related violence. This includes thoroughly examining any incidents that threaten the integrity of the electoral process and holding those accountable to the full extent of existing election laws.
"Such acts are not merely criminal offenses; they represent a direct assault on the Constitutional Commission, undermining the democratic foundations of our society. Therefore, it is imperative that these transgressions are met with a rigorous pursuit of justice and an unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law."
The family also called on the Department of Justice (DOJ) to expedite the legal proceedings and ensure a thorough and impartial investigation.
The Philippine National Police (PNP), likewise were also urged to secure all witnesses, protect the families of the victims, and guarantee that the rule of law prevails.
“We demand justice for Bai Maceda and Datu Jojo. Their killers must be held accountable. We call on the authorities to act swiftly, protect those who have come forward as witnesses, and ensure that no effort is spared in delivering justice,” said one of the siblings of Bai Maceda Lidasan.
The public and media are also encouraged to respect the family's privacy during this difficult time while remaining steadfast in their fight for truth and justice.
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