ZAMBOANGA CITY — Atty. Vidzfar Julie, the provincial election supervisor for Sulu, narrowly escaped death after surviving a shooting incident in Zamboanga City on Thursday morning. However, her sibling, who was driving the vehicle during the ambush, sustained critical injuries and remains hospitalized.
According to initial reports, unidentified assailants opened fire on Julie’s vehicle while it was traveling through a busy area of the city. Atty. Julie was unharmed in the attack, but her sibling, who has not yet been named, suffered gunshot wounds and is currently fighting for their life.
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has strongly condemned the attack. Chairman George Garcia released a statement expressing outrage over the incident, calling it a “treacherous act of violence.”
“No words are enough to condemn this treacherous act of violence against our people. What is more gruesome and unforgivable is when a loved one is caught in the crossfire, so to speak. We are not yet prepared to cry hopelessness, but a call for immediate action from authorities is strongly demanded,” Garcia said.
Julie’s relatives have also shared their anguish on social media, reposting the Comelec’s official statement alongside calls for justice. Meanwhile, local authorities have launched an investigation to identify the perpetrators and determine the motive behind the attack.
The shooting has sparked widespread concern, with many questioning the safety of public servants and their families amid the heightened political climate. Advocacy groups and citizens alike have urged law enforcement agencies to prioritize the case and ensure swift justice.
As of this writing, the Sulu election supervisor is reported to be in stable condition. However, her sibling’s critical state has added urgency to the public’s demand for accountability and action.
The Comelec has pledged its full support to the investigation and reaffirmed its commitment to protecting its officials. The incident serves as a grim reminder of the dangers faced by public servants in the line of duty.