Philippine security forces remained on heightened alert on Sunday following a bomb attack that resulted in the tragic death of four individuals and left several others wounded during a Catholic Mass held at a university gymnasium in Marawi. Authorities have characterized this incident as an act of Islamist terrorism.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. strongly denounced the "senseless and most heinous acts perpetrated by foreign terrorists" and emphasized that extremists resorting to violence against innocent civilians will be deemed enemies of society. The bomb blast occurred in Marawi, a city previously besieged by pro-Islamic State militants in 2017, and came shortly after the killing of 11 combatants in a military operation in Maguindanao del Sur, about 200 km away.
In response to these incidents, President Marcos called for calm, assuring citizens of measures to ensure their safety. He instructed the national police and armed forces to protect civilians and secure vulnerable communities. Additionally, he pledged to bring the perpetrators of this ruthless act to justice.
Army Major General Gabriel Viray III described the attack at Mindanao State University as a terrorist act, and military personnel, along with explosive disposal experts, were on high alert. The gymnasium, the site of the explosion, exhibited burn marks in the center but otherwise appeared intact. Videos showed rescuers carrying injured individuals out of the gym.
Governor Mamintal Adiong Jr of Lanao del Sur condemned the terrorist attack on educational institutions, emphasizing that such acts must be denounced as these places promote a culture of peace.
In a separate military operation, Philippine forces killed 11 militants, including members of the Dawlah Islamiyah-Philippines group. Military officials are investigating whether this group was involved in the university attack by examining the bomb's signature.
The Coast Guard, in response to the situation, heightened pre-departure inspections at ports. Meanwhile, Mindanao State University expressed deep sorrow and condemnation for the violent act, announcing the suspension of classes until further notice. The nation remains on alert as investigations continue to identify the motives and perpetrators behind these tragic events.
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