MANILA, Philippines: President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday denounced the attack on government forces by suspected Dawlah Islamiya (DI) terrorists in Datu Hoffer Ampatuan town, Maguindanao del Sur and vowed swift justice for the slain soldiers.

"We strongly condemn the cowardly ambush that targeted four of our courageous soldiers in Maguindanao del Sur on March 17," Marcos said in a post on X (formerly Twitter).

"This despicable act only strengthens our resolve to eradicate terrorism from the region and our entire nation," he added.

The soldiers were on their way back to their base around 10 a.m. in Barangay Tuayan after doing community service when they were attacked.

The President vowed that his administration would remain resolute in its pledge "that justice is swiftly served" to the killed troopers.

"I have instructed the immediate provision of benefits and assistance to support the families they leave behind," he said. "Let this tragic event unite us in our unwavering commitment for a safer, stronger, and insurgency-free Philippines. Together, we shall prevail against these acts of violence," he added.