Jolo, Sulu – A high-ranking official of the Ministry of Basic, Higher, and Technical Education (MBHTE), Sulu Division, was shot and killed by an unidentified assailant inside the ministry’s compound on Bonifacio Street, Barangay San Raymundo, Jolo, Sulu. The attack occurred at approximately 5:05 PM on February 7, 2025.
Police identified the victim as Dr. Sonatria Dandon Gaspar, Ed.D., Assistant Schools Division Superintendent of MBHTE Sulu. Gaspar, who was separated from her spouse, was a resident of the same barangay.
According to an initial police investigation, the victim was walking towards her office within the MBHTE compound when she was suddenly shot multiple times by an unknown gunman. The gunfire struck Gaspar on the right side of her face and the back of her body, causing fatal injuries. Authorities recovered two spent shells from a .45 caliber pistol at the crime scene, along with the victim’s personal belongings, which were turned over to her family.
Gaspar was rushed to Sulu Provincial Hospital but was declared dead on arrival by attending physicians.
Later that evening, her remains were transported to Zamboanga City via a passenger vessel for burial following Islamic rites.
The Jolo Municipal Police Station, led by Chief PLTC Annidul Sali, is conducting an in-depth investigation to determine the motive behind the attack and identify the suspect. Authorities are closely monitoring developments to ensure justice for the victim and her family.