MANILA - Malacañang on Sunday condemned the killing of nine sugar workers in Sagay City, Negros Occidental.

"The Palace is deeply perturbed to learn about the incident and the Philippine National Police (PNP) has already been ordered to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation on this dastardly act," Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said in a statement.

The government also assured the families of the victims that the perpetrators will be held responsible.

"Families of the victims of this extremely cruel act can count on the government that it will enforce the full wrath of the law against its perpetrators," Panelo added.

The victims, all members of the National Federation of Sugar Workers (NFSW), were shot dead by armed men Saturday night after they reportedly tried to occupy private land in Hacienda Nene, Barangay Bulanon.

They were eating dinner inside the tents when they were shot by 5 to 6 gunmen -- not 40 assailants as earlier reported -- said Sagay police chief, Chief Insp. Roberto Mansueto.

• 9 sugarcane workers massacred in Negros hacienda

Former Bayan Muna Rep. Neri Colmenares said the administration and the military should be held responsible.

• Colmenares blames government, military for Negros farmers' massacre

Local executives and church leaders have also called on the government to conduct an investigation on the incident.

• Church, local execs condemn massacre of Negros sugar workers