SHARIFF SAYDONA MUSTAPHA, Maguindanao del Sur — A father and respected karate master was killed after he was ambushed by still unidentified gunmen while traveling along a national highway in Barangay Linantangan, Shariff Saydona Mustapha, Maguindanao del Sur, at around 1:30 p.m. on Saturday.
The victim was identified as Faisal Guiaton Pangawilan, popularly known in the community as “Master Faisal,” an adult resident of Barangay Linantangan and a well-known karate instructor.
According to the initial investigation, Pangawilan was on his way home aboard his motorcycle when unidentified assailants suddenly opened fire on him along the highway.
Authorities said the victim sustained multiple gunshot wounds, causing him to lose control of his motorcycle before crashing into the grassy shoulder of the road. He died instantly from the injuries he sustained.
Responding law enforcement personnel immediately secured the crime scene and launched an investigation. Evidence was collected while investigators interviewed possible witnesses who may have seen the attack or the suspects’ escape.
Police have yet to determine the motive behind the killing, and the identities of the gunmen remain unknown. Authorities are pursuing all possible angles, including whether the attack was targeted or connected to personal, criminal, or other motives.
A manhunt operation has been launched to identify and arrest those responsible for the fatal ambush.
The killing has shocked residents of Barangay Linantangan, where Pangawilan was known not only as a family man but also as a karate master who had earned respect within the local community.
Authorities are urging anyone with information that could help identify the suspects or shed light on the incident to coordinate with the nearest police station as the investigation continues.