MALABANG, Lanao del Sur — A Philippine Army soldier and a young volunteer teacher were killed after armed men ambushed a military convoy in Barangay Lamin, Malabang, Lanao del Sur, on Saturday afternoon, prompting the Ministry of Basic, Higher and Technical Education (MBHTE) of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) to strongly condemn the incident and demand justice for the slain educator.
Bangsamoro Regional Police Office (PRO-BAR) spokesperson Capt. Steffi Salanguit identified the fatalities as Corporal Jayson Castro, a member of the Philippine Army and a resident of Barangay Dipolo, Molave, Zamboanga del Sur, and Hapipa Saripada Macadato, 23, of Barangay Punong, Picong, Lanao del Sur, a volunteer teacher under MBHTE-BARMM and a newly licensed professional teacher.
According to the Malabang Municipal Police Station, Corporal Castro was riding in a white Toyota Hilux bearing plate number KAR 1864 together with fellow soldiers and members of the Civilian Armed Force Geographical Unit Active Auxiliary (CAFGU-CAA) as they returned to their camp after conducting an area security operation in Barangay Baraas.
At around 5 p.m. on June 27, the convoy was reportedly ambushed by at least 10 heavily armed men while passing through Barangay Lamin.
Corporal Castro was killed during the attack, while the vehicle’s driver, Richard Estomen, sustained injuries. Five other CAFGU Active Auxiliary members aboard the vehicle survived the ambush.
Volunteer teacher hit by stray bullet
Authorities said Macadato was not part of the military convoy.
She was reportedly riding a payong-payong, a local motorcycle-for-hire, on her way home to Barangay Punong when she was struck by a stray bullet in the back of the head during the exchange of gunfire. She died instantly.
Police recovered numerous spent shell casings of 7.62mm and 5.56mm ammunition, believed to have been fired from M14 and M16 rifles, as well as one unexploded rifle grenade at the crime scene.
The Malabang Police continue to investigate the motive behind the ambush while conducting intelligence gathering and hot pursuit operations to identify and arrest the perpetrators.
MBHTE condemns killing
In an official statement, MBHTE-BARMM strongly condemned the killing of Macadato, describing her death as a devastating loss to both her family and the education sector.
“Her untimely death is a profound loss not only to her family and loved ones, but also to the education sector. Her dedication and commitment to serving her community through education embody the values of peace, hope, and public service that educators uphold,” the ministry said.
The ministry urged concerned authorities to carry out a swift, impartial, and thorough investigation to ensure that all those responsible are brought to justice.
MBHTE also extended its deepest sympathies to Macadato’s bereaved family, affirming its solidarity with them in their pursuit of truth and accountability.
“Teachers and education workers are builders of peace, agents of change, and bearers of hope in our communities. They must be protected at all times and allowed to carry out their noble duties free from violence, fear, and harm,” the ministry emphasized.
Calls for accountability
Public appeals for justice have intensified following confirmation that Macadato was an innocent civilian caught in the violence.
In a separate statement, advocates condemned the killing of the volunteer teacher, stressing that she had no involvement in any armed conflict.
“She was an innocent civilian. She had no part in any conflict. Her life, her future, and her service to the community were taken away under deeply painful circumstances,” the statement read.
The group stressed that no property dispute, no durian-related conflict, and no allegation of theft could ever justify the loss of a young educator’s life.
It also appealed to MBHTE and other education authorities to extend assistance to Macadato’s family, emphasizing that volunteer teachers deserve protection, dignity, and justice.
“We stand with the family in their call for justice. Protect innocent civilians. Protect those who serve our children.”
School mourns beloved educator
Meanwhile, Picong National High School paid tribute to Macadato, remembering her as a compassionate teacher whose dedication touched countless students and colleagues.
“Your kindness, patience, and dedication to teaching have touched countless lives. You were more than an educator—you were a mentor, a guide, and a source of inspiration,” the school said.
The school said her legacy would continue through the lives she had influenced and the values she instilled in her learners.
Army honors fallen soldier
The 64th Infantry “Knights” Battalion, where Corporal Castro served, also released a statement honoring its fallen comrade.
“We honor our brave comrade who made the ultimate sacrifice in the faithful performance of duty. His courage, dedication, and unwavering commitment to protecting the Filipino people and preserving peace will forever be remembered,” the battalion said.
The unit described Castro’s sacrifice as a testament to the highest ideals of the Philippine Army and the Armed Forces of the Philippines, offering prayers and condolences to his grieving family.
“Your sacrifice will never be forgotten. Your legacy of honor, courage, and patriotism will live on in the hearts of a grateful nation.”
Investigation continues
Authorities have yet to identify the armed men behind the ambush or establish the motive for the attack.
Police and military forces continue hot pursuit operations while investigators process evidence recovered from the crime scene.
The deaths of Corporal Jayson Castro and volunteer teacher Hapipa Saripada Macadato have sparked renewed calls for stronger protection of both security personnel and civilians, particularly teachers serving in conflict-affected communities, as officials pursue justice for the victims and accountability for those responsible.