Manila, Philippines – Malabang, Lanao del Sur Mayor Alinader “Dagar” Balindong and six of his relatives have been found guilty of murder and frustrated murder, according to a ruling issued by the Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 50 in Manila on Monday.
The conviction is in connection with the ambush of H. Rauf “Dodong” Boloto Malawani on February 10, 2021, in Malabang. Those found guilty alongside Mayor Balindong include Al-Rashid Balindong Abdul, also known as “Sultan/Sulu,” Ghair Limgas Balindong, Saud Balindong Mangandog, Togammi Balindong, Fairus Sammer Balindong, and Alibana Balindong Hadji Jawad Alonto.
However, the convicted individuals failed to appear during the promulgation of judgment and are now being sought by authorities.
Flashback: Ambush in Malabang on February 10, 2021
On February 10, 2021, an important incident occurred in Malabang, Lanao del Sur, where H. Rauf Boloto “Dodong” Malawani, a well-known leader of the town, was ambushed and killed. According to reports, armed men in three pick-up trucks opened fire on him as he was returning home from Marawi City. Malawani, an uncle and supporter of former Mayor Tomas Boloto Macapodi, became a victim of what his relatives believe was a carefully planned attack by the Balindong family to instigate a “rido” (family feud) aimed at preventing Macapodi’s re-run in the 2022 elections.
Despite police investigations, witnesses were reluctant to speak out due to fear of retaliation. At the time, Brig. Gen. Samuel Rodriguez urged the victim’s family not to retaliate and to allow authorities to deliver justice.
Now, there is renewed hope that justice will be served after RTC Branch 50 in Manila issued a guilty verdict for murder and frustrated murder. As a result, Mayor Alinader “Dagar” Balindong remains a fugitive along with his six children, who are allegedly linked to the crime. Authorities, including the NBI and PNP, are being urged to ensure their immediate surrender.
This report aims to inform the public about the true circumstances surrounding the case against Mayor Balindong and to encourage proper justice and accountability in criminal cases.
