TACURONG CITY, Sultan Kudarat — Former Maguindanao del Sur Board Member Taharuddin “Frank” Mlok narrowly escaped an assassination attempt Tuesday after unidentified gunmen ambushed his vehicle in a busy section of Tacurong City around midday.

Initial police reports revealed that Mlok was driving when armed assailants suddenly opened fire on his vehicle. Witnesses reported multiple gunshots, causing panic among motorists and residents.

Authorities confirmed that Mlok’s bulletproof vehicle absorbed the hail of bullets, preventing a fatal attack.

Photos from the scene showed the vehicle riddled with holes from high-caliber firearms. Mlok emerged unhurt and was immediately escorted to safety by responding police officers.

The motive behind the ambush remains under investigation as the Tacurong City Police and the Sultan Kudarat Provincial Police Office have launched a manhunt for the attackers and are reviewing security footage from nearby establishments.

Investigators are considering whether the attack was politically motivated or linked to previous local conflicts, as Mlok, a former elected official, remains an influential figure in Maguindanao del Sur.

Authorities have tightened security in key areas of Tacurong City following the incident. Mlok, who is now in stable condition, vowed to cooperate fully with police in uncovering the identities of those behind the ambush.