Village chief, kin killed in ambush

COTABATO CITY, Philippines — A barangay chairman and his relative were killed in an ambush by motorcycle-riding men in Arakan, Cotabato yesterday morning.

Jerry Prande, chairman of Barangay Malibatuan, and Gemar Prande, a member of the CAFGU Active Auxiliary, died at the scene of the attack that occurred in the village.

Maj. Reynante Pascua, chief of the Arakan police, said the victims were on a motorcycle when the assailants waylaid them in Sitio Butterfly.

The assailants have escaped before responding police officers and village watchmen arrived at the scene of the ambush.

Local officials said they would help police investigate the incident until justice is served.

Probers have yet to determine the motive for the killing.