ARAKAN, North Cotabato — A barangay chairman and his relative were shot dead in a broad daylight attack on Saturday in the town of Arakan, authorities confirmed.

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

Initial police reports showed that the victims were riding a motorcycle along the national highway in Barangay Malibatuan at around 12 noon when they were suddenly attacked by still unidentified assailants. The suspects fled the scene immediately after the shooting and headed in an unknown direction.

Authorities have launched a full-scale investigation to determine the motive behind the killings, including possible personal, political, or security-related angles. Police are also working to identify the perpetrators and retrieve closed-circuit television footage in the area that could help establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Security forces have increased patrols in nearby areas to prevent further violence and reassure residents, as the shooting has heightened concern among local officials and community members.

Police urged anyone with information related to the attack to coordinate with the nearest police station, stressing that community cooperation will be crucial in solving the case and bringing those responsible to justice.