The killing of Zeraphi Omar, who is running for kagawad in Barangay Biarong, South Upi, and his companion, Parato Mudzol, 32, occurred a day after motorcycle-riding men shot dead Leonardo de Jesus Jr., who was seeking a third term as barangay councilman in nearby Datu Piang town.

Investigation is ongoing into the killing of De Jesus, authorities said.

Omar and Mudzol were on a motorcycle when assailants waylaid them in Barangay Lamud, according to Col. Roel Sermese, Maguindanao del Sur police director.

Omar is a son of Datu Esmal Omar, incumbent chief of Barangay Biarong.

Police have yet to determine the motive for the killing and identify suspects.

Meanwhile, in Sultan Kudarat, motorcycle-riding men shot dead an Army private and wounded two others in Tacurong City.

Pvt. Reymar Pelaez was talking to his cousin, Royce Garde, in front of their house when a motorcycle with two men on board pulled up.

One of the men pulled out a gun and shot the victims, killing Pelaez instantly.

Garde and bystander Jay-AR Dineal were taken to a hospital for treatment of gunshot wounds.