ESPERANZA, Sultan Kudarat — Barangay Captain Datu Manalao Mangelen Nur of Barangay Dados, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte, was killed in a shooting incident in the municipality of Esperanza, Sultan Kudarat, on the morning of Sunday, October 11, 2026, according to a statement issued by the Liga ng mga Barangay of Datu Odin Sinsuat.
Initial reports indicated that personnel of the Esperanza Municipal Police Station (MPS) immediately responded to the scene to conduct an initial investigation, document the incident, and gather evidence that could help identify the perpetrators.
Authorities are continuing to establish the circumstances surrounding the killing, including the identities of those responsible and the possible motive behind the attack. Police have reportedly launched a hot pursuit operation to track down and arrest the suspects, who fled after the shooting.
As of this writing, further details about the circumstances of the attack have yet to be officially disclosed by the police.
Liga ng mga Barangay Condemns Killing
In an official statement issued on October 11, the Liga ng mga Barangay of Datu Odin Sinsuat strongly condemned the killing of Nur, describing the incident as a tragic and senseless act of violence against a public servant.
The organization expressed deep sorrow over the barangay captain’s death, emphasizing that his loss is felt not only by his family and the residents of Barangay Dados but also by the wider barangay community and the municipality of Datu Odin Sinsuat.
The Liga recognized Nur’s dedication and service to his constituents, saying his contributions to the community would be remembered.
It also called on the authorities to conduct a thorough, impartial, and swift investigation to identify those behind the killing and ensure that they are held accountable under the law.
The group stressed that violence against public officials must be addressed through a firm commitment to justice and the rule of law.
Appeal for Calm and Responsible Information Sharing
Amid the incident, the Liga ng mga Barangay appealed to the public to remain calm, refrain from spreading unverified information, and uphold peace, unity, and mutual respect in their communities.
The organization also expressed solidarity with Nur’s bereaved family, the people of Barangay Dados, and fellow barangay officials as they mourn his death.
The killing has raised serious concerns over the safety of local public servants, particularly barangay officials who serve as frontline representatives of government in their communities. However, the circumstances and motive behind the attack remain subject to the ongoing police investigation.
The Liga concluded its statement with the Islamic expression, “Inna Lillahi wa Inna Ilayhi Raji’un,” meaning, “Truly, we belong to Allah, and truly to Him we shall return.”
It offered prayers for the forgiveness of Nur’s sins, his admission to Jannah, and strength and patience for his family and loved ones. The organization also prayed for the protection of public servants and the safety of communities.
Authorities are expected to provide further information as the investigation and pursuit operations progress.