Marawi City, Philippines – In a shocking incident, a powerful explosion struck a Catholic Mass held in a university gymnasium in Marawi City on Sunday, leaving four people dead and dozens injured. The targeted attack occurred at Mindanao State University in Lanao del Sur province, located in the southern part of the Philippines. The region’s police director, Brigadier General Allan Nobleza, disclosed that investigations were ongoing, with suspicions pointing towards the involvement of pro-Islamic State militants.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. swiftly condemned the “senseless and most heinous acts” on social media, denouncing the foreign terrorists responsible. He emphasized that those who perpetrate violence against the innocent will be considered enemies of society. As a response to the incident, additional security forces were deployed across the university, and classes were suspended.
Lanao del Sur Governor Mamintal Adiong, Jr. expressed condemnation for the violent bombing incident, highlighting the necessity of condemning terroristic attacks on educational institutions, which he described as places that should promote a culture of peace. The governor, in a statement, visited wounded victims of the bombing at a medical facility, as showcased on the Lanao del Sur provincial government’s Facebook page.
The Mindanao State University issued a statement on Facebook unequivocally condemning the act, emphasizing the horror and senselessness of the attack. The university expressed solidarity with the victims and their families and pledged to cooperate fully with the authorities in the ongoing investigation.
As the nation grapples with the aftermath of this tragic event, the focus remains on unraveling the motives behind the attack and ensuring the safety and security of educational institutions against such acts of terror.
