MANILA, Philippines: The bombing of the Mindanao State University (MSU) gym in Marawi City on Sunday, which claimed the lives of up to 11 people and left 46 others injured, has garnered widespread condemnation from countries around the world. Notably, the United Kingdom (UK) and Australia have expressed their support for the efforts of the Marcos government in bringing the perpetrators to justice.
The British Ambassador to the Philippines, Laure Beaufils, took to X (formerly Twitter) to condemn the senseless act of violence. In her statement, she emphasized the timing of the attack, which occurred during Mindanao Peace Week and at the start of Advent. “The United Kingdom condemns this senseless act of violence, especially during Mindanao Peace Week and at the start of Advent. We support efforts to bring the perpetrators to justice,” Beaufils wrote.
Australian Ambassador to Manila, Hae Kyong Yu PSM, also expressed her solidarity with the Philippine government in their pursuit of justice. On X platform, she deplored the violent attack on MSU and pledged ongoing support. “We will continue to stand with the Philippine [government] in all [its] efforts to bring those responsible to justice,” Yu posted.
China, another influential nation, joined the chorus of condemnation. Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines, Huang Xilian, issued a statement on Facebook, condemning the “killing of innocent people” in Marawi. He firmly stated that violence against civilians has no place in the world.
The United States, a longstanding ally of the Philippines, also expressed its condemnation of the “horrific terrorist attack” that took place during a Catholic service at the MSU. Matthew Miller, the spokesperson for the US Department of State, affirmed the close partnership between the two countries and their joint stance against such acts of violence. “The United States is in close contact with our Philippine partners and stands with the people of the Philippines in rejecting this act of violence,” Miller said.
The international community’s swift and united response to the MSU bombing demonstrates the global consensus against terrorism and violence targeting innocent civilians. It also signifies the solidarity and support extended to the Philippines in its pursuit of justice for the victims and their families.
While the identities and motivations of the perpetrators remain unknown, the collective condemnation from various countries underscores the importance of international cooperation in combating terrorism. It serves as a reminder that acts of violence, like the one witnessed in Marawi City, have no place in any society.
The support from the United Kingdom, Australia, China, and the United States sends a clear message that the international community stands united against terrorism, irrespective of geographical boundaries. It also highlights the significance of holding the perpetrators accountable for their actions and ensuring justice for the victims.
As the investigation into the MSU bombing continues, the Philippines can take solace in the fact that it has the support and solidarity of nations around the world. This collective effort will undoubtedly contribute to the pursuit of justice and the prevention of future acts of violence.
In conclusion, the condemnation of the MSU bombing by the United Kingdom, Australia, China, and the United States underscores the global consensus against terrorism and violence. The international community’s support for the Philippines in its pursuit of justice sends a powerful message that acts of violence targeting innocent civilians will not be tolerated. Through international cooperation, the world stands united against terrorism, reaffirming the importance of holding the perpetrators accountable and ensuring justice for the victims.
Source: The Manila Times
