House of former congressman fired at

COTABATO CITY — Former Maguindanao Rep. Guimid Matalam survived a rocket attack at his house in Datu Paglas, Maguindanao the other night, in what he said was perpetrated by "partisans" out to neutralize him.

Matalam told Catholic radio station dxND in Kidapawan City that the B-40 anti-tank rocket, fired from a distance, penetrated the roof of his house and exploded on top of his bed.

"It was just fortunate that I was at the comfort room when the rocket exploded," Matalam said.

Matalam said he is certain that "partisans" could be behind the attempt on his life. Matalam, who was vice governor of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) from 1996 to 2001. He is among dozens of Maguindanaons now aspiring for a seat in the ARMM’s Regional Legislative Assembly during its Aug. 8 elections. — John Unson