The Philippine authorities have formally charged politician Andal Ampatuan Jr with multiple murders. Mr Ampatuan stands accused of leading a gang that massacred supporters and family members of his political rival Ismael Mangudadatu last week, killing a total of 57 people.

Mr Ampatuan Sr has been governor of the province of Maguindanao for decades, and the family sought to continue its legacy by putting forward Ampatuan Jr to succeed his father at the next elections for governor. However, Ismael Mangudadatu emerged as an unexpectedly strong rival candidate.

Mr Mangudadatu lost his wife and two sisters in the massacre but still intends to stand in the election.