26/02/2026
CONDEMNATION STATEMENT
We Unreservedly Condemn the Atrocious Shooting Incident in Barangay Dacumuya, Mamasapano, Maguindanao del Sur – A Paramount Concern for Bangsamoro Youth
We are profoundly appalled and deeply aggrieved by the senseless and brutal shooting that claimed the lives of promising young scholars of Quranic studies in Barangay Dacumuya, Mamasapano, Maguindanao del Sur last night February 25, 2026. This catastrophic event constitutes a grave affront to the collective aspirations of Bangsamoro youth, who are steadfastly committed to forging a future anchored in tranquility, erudition, and reciprocal esteem.
These diligent learners were engrossed in the venerable endeavor of cultivating their spiritual and linguistic acumen – a noble pursuit that ought to be safeguarded and fostered, rather than abruptly terminated by wanton aggression. This heinous act of violence is not merely a flagrant violation of fundamental human rights and the sanctity of innocent life; it is unequivocally incompatible with the tenets and precepts of Islam. It undermines the foundational aspirations of Bangsamoro youth for a secure milieu conducive to holistic development, and strikes at the very core of our faith and communal ethos, which enshrine the protection of life, the nurturing of the young, and the relentless pursuit of knowledge. The safeguarding of our youth’s lives is indispensable, for they are indispensable partners in nation-building – the architects of our collective tomorrow.
We earnestly and urgently exhort the leadership of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (M**F), local leaders of the Province of Maguindanao del Sur, and all concerned stakeholders to undertake immediate and decisive action: to institute a comprehensive, transparent, and impartial inquiry into this incident in Barangay Dacumuya, ensuring that perpetrators are swiftly brought to justice; to implement robust enhanced security protocols for the people throughout Maguindanao del Sur and the broader Bangsamoro region; to address the underlying catalysts of violence through targeted peacebuilding initiatives that are consonant with Islamic principles of equity and conciliation; and to extend unwavering support and succor to the bereaved families during this period of profound sorrow and loss.
Our youth represent the preeminent asset and ultimate hope of Bangsamoro communities. Anchored in the teachings of Islam, which accord inviolable worth to every human life, we must coalesce in solidarity to guarantee that they may mature and flourish within a secure environment, unencumbered by fear or violence. As partners in shaping our nation’s destiny, their safety and well-being must remain our foremost priority.