Ampatuans of Maguindanao formally announced support to Presidential candidate Jejomar Binay during a proclamation rally of the United Nationalist Alliance (UNA) in Talayan town on Tuesday, April 5, 2016.
Sajid Ampatuan, son of the late patriarch Andal Sr., led the said proclamation. He was out on bail following charges over his alleged participation in the light of Maguindanao incident that happened in November 23, 2009 which left 58 casualties including 32 mediamen.
According to the report of Interaksyon.com, the former acting governor of the province of Maguindanao is running for the position of mayor of the clan Bailiwick and Shariff Aguak, former provincial capital. Buluan is now the capital of Maguindanao.
Watch the video below as Ampatuans endorse Jejomar Binay for President.
Despite of an ongoing trial, majority of the members of Ampatuan clan remain politically influential in the region and even dominating in 10 out of 36 towns of the province.
Aside from Sajid, Datu Benzar Ampatuan, who’s on bid for the position as Mamasapano mayor was also spotted at the proclamation rally. Bai Kristina Ampatuan, the daughter of Zaldy Ampatuan, former governor of Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) is also present during the rally as she bids for the position as Datu Hoffer mayor.
Ali Midtimbang, father-in-law of Zaldy Ampatuan was also present at the rally.
Maguindanao’s most influential clan has been tagged for numerous controversy in the province including anomaly during 2004 presidential elections and the 2007 polls.
Meanwhile, Jejomar Binay placed 3rd on the recently conducted Pulse Asia Survey which was commissioned by network giant, ABS-CBN. Topping on the list for presidential seat is neophyte senator Grace Poe.
Photo Credit: Dennis Arcon/InterAksyon.com