SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur — A respected Indigenous Peoples (IP) leader and pastor was killed while another person was wounded after unidentified armed men ambushed their vehicle along a road in Barangay Rizal, San Francisco, Agusan del Sur, on the afternoon of Friday, July 31, 2026.
The victim was identified by members of the Indigenous community as Pastor Bhen Andaya, also known as Datu Kalambuan Balbino Andaya, a well-known leader of the Banwaon Tribe. His death has sent shockwaves through the IP community, with many expressing grief over the loss of a spiritual leader and tribal elder who had long served his people.
According to the initial investigation of the San Francisco Municipal Police Station, three individuals were onboard a Mitsubishi Montero traversing Barangay Rizal when they were suddenly attacked by unidentified armed assailants.
Authorities said the pastor, who was driving the vehicle, sustained multiple gunshot wounds and was declared dead on the spot due to the severity of his injuries.
One of his companions was also struck by gunfire and was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital for medical treatment. The third passenger escaped the attack unharmed.
Police believe the suspects carried out the ambush while the victims’ vehicle was still in motion before quickly fleeing the scene, triggering a hot pursuit operation.
Investigators are now working to determine the motive behind the attack and identify the perpetrators. As of this writing, authorities have not disclosed whether the incident was related to personal, political, tribal, or other possible motives, saying the investigation remains ongoing.
The fatal ambush has drawn widespread sorrow among Indigenous communities across Agusan del Sur, particularly among members of the Banwaon Tribe.
In a heartfelt tribute circulating on social media, members of the IP community wrote:
“The IP community, especially the Banwaon Tribe, will sorely miss you, Datu Kalambuan Balbino Andaya, locally known as Pastor Bhen Andaya.”
The message reflects the deep respect accorded to Andaya, who was recognized not only as a Christian pastor but also as a tribal leader who dedicated his life to serving and guiding his fellow Indigenous Peoples.
His death marks another violent incident in Mindanao that has claimed the life of a community leader, raising renewed concerns over the safety of Indigenous leaders and advocates in remote communities.
Police continue to conduct a thorough investigation and have appealed to anyone with information that could help identify the gunmen to coordinate with the nearest police station.
No group has claimed responsibility for the attack as of press time. Authorities assured the public that efforts are underway to bring those responsible to justice.