(UPDATE) VICE President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte expressed her condolences to the families of the victims of the recent bombing at Mindanao State University (MSU) in Marawi City. She urged all Filipinos, especially those in Mindanao, to remain calm while authorities conduct their investigation.
Duterte emphasized the importance of caution and vigilance in order to prevent further attacks on civilians. She stated, “Ensuring the safety of students in schools from terrorist threats is a paramount priority for fostering a secure learning environment.”
Sen. Christopher “Bong” Go echoed Duterte’s sentiments, calling on law enforcement authorities to tirelessly pursue and bring to justice those responsible for the bombing. He emphasized the need to condemn acts of terrorism on educational institutions like MSU.
Senate President Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri expressed his outrage at the heartless act of targeting innocent civilians. He highlighted the alarming nature of the attack taking place during a Catholic Mass and emphasized that no one should feel unsafe in places of learning and worship.
Senate Majority Leader Emmanuel Joel Villanueva expressed his deep concern over the fact that the incident occurred within a school, a place that should be a safe haven for students, teachers, and the community. He emphasized that acts of violence should never go unpunished and called for collective responsibility in ensuring the safety and security of communities.
Senate Minority Leader Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel also condemned the attack and urged the Filipino people to remain united, stating, “We must not allow this crime to trigger sectarian hatred and further animosity among our people.”
Sen. Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr. strongly denounced the senseless violence, emphasizing that it has no place in society. He called on law enforcement agencies to swiftly bring the perpetrators to justice.
Sen. Maria Lourdes Nancy Binay called for increased intelligence efforts by the police and military to combat lawless elements and groups that terrorize society. She emphasized the commitment to peace in Mindanao and the refusal to be intimidated by threats or acts of terror.
Sen. Jose “Jinggoy” Estrada stressed the importance of applying the full force of the law to ensure accountability and deter further acts of violence. He stated, “The perpetrators must be held responsible for their actions.”
Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian expressed determination to work collaboratively to eradicate extremism and promote peace in the face of such acts of terrorism. He called for a thorough investigation to swiftly bring the perpetrators to justice.
Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano strongly condemned the violence, stating, “There is absolutely no space or justification for these kinds of acts in a civilized society.”
Sen. Maria Josefa Imelda “Imee” Marcos demanded that law enforcement agencies punish the perpetrators to the fullest extent of the law. She emphasized the need for justice in the face of such a heinous crime.
Sen. Mary Grace Poe voiced her expectation that law enforcement agencies do whatever it takes to bring the perpetrators to justice and dismantle their networks.
Sen. Manuel “Lito” Lapid condemned the bombing as a clear act of terrorism and called for relentless efforts to hold the perpetrator accountable. He stated, “This heinous act has no place in our society.”
The strong condemnation and calls for justice from government officials reflect the collective outrage and determination of the Filipino people to stand against acts of terrorism. As the investigation unfolds, it is crucial that authorities work diligently to ensure accountability and prevent future acts of violence. The safety and security of educational institutions and communities must remain a top priority, fostering an environment where students can learn and thrive without fear.
Source: The Manila Times
