Gunmen set fire to a health center and seven houses in Barangay Malingao, Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao del Sur on Monday, March 10.
According to town and barangay officials, more than 200 residents had already evacuated to safer areas two days before the incident due to gunfire from M16 and M14 rifles by the same group.
Police investigators and Moro leaders believe that the incident was an attempt to embarrass reelectionist Mayor Akmad Ampatuan Sr., who is also the current chairman of the Shariff Aguak Municipal Peace and Order Council.
Authorities are investigating whether the incident is politically related because there are allegations floating that a candidate has armed supporters who are not members of the MNLF or MILF.
The police and military continue to assist in identifying and holding accountable those responsible for the incident.
