ARAKAN, North Cotabato — A barangay chairman and his relative were killed in a brazen daylight shooting on Saturday in the town of Arakan, authorities said.

Police identified the victims as Barangay Malibatuan Chairman Jerry Bondad Prande and Gemar Caro Prande, a member of the Citizens Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU). Both were declared dead after suffering multiple gunshot wounds.

Initial police reports showed that the two were riding a motorcycle along the national highway in Barangay Malibatuan at around noon when they were suddenly ambushed by still unidentified gunmen. The attackers immediately fled the scene and escaped in an unknown direction.

Authorities have launched a full investigation to determine the motive behind the killing, looking into possible personal, political or security-related angles. Police are also working to identify the suspects and are reviewing available closed-circuit television footage that could help piece together what happened.

In the wake of the incident, security forces have stepped up patrols in nearby areas to prevent further violence and to calm residents, as the attack has stirred concern among local officials and the community.

Police urged anyone with information about the shooting to come forward and coordinate with the nearest police station, stressing that public cooperation will be vital in solving the case and bringing those responsible to justice.