MANILA, Philippines: Lawmakers of the House of Representatives have expressed their condemnation of the recent bombing that took place at Mindanao State University (MSU). The attack, which occurred during Sunday Mass at the university’s main campus, has left the nation in shock and mourning.
Lanao del Sur 1st District Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong, deeply affected by the tragedy, stated, “My heart lies in pieces upon hearing that there was a vicious and unprovoked attack on innocent citizens attending Sunday Mass at the Mindanao State University main campus this morning.” Adiong also extended his support and assistance to the victims and their families, ensuring that all medical expenses of the wounded would be covered. He further mentioned that a team has already been deployed to assist the victims and their families at the Amai Pakpak Medical Center.
In the face of such a horrific event, Adiong called for solidarity among the community. “Let us stand together as a community, providing solace and strength to one another as we mourn the senseless loss of life,” he urged.
House Deputy Speaker and Lanao del Sur 2nd District Rep. Yasser Alonto Balindong also expressed his condemnation of the bombing. “We offer our sincerest and deepest sympathies to the families and friends of the victims as they endure this time of immense sadness and mourning,” Balindong stated. He emphasized the need for unity in these challenging times and reaffirmed their unwavering support for the people of Marawi. Balindong further added, “This reprehensible act undermines the ongoing efforts of Marawi’s residents to establish and maintain peace and stability,” firmly asserting that violence has no rightful place in society.
House Deputy Minority Leader and Basilan Rep. Mujiv Hataman, a former governor of the now-defunct Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, also condemned the bombing. “We condemn in the strongest possible terms the bombing of students holding mass at the Dimaporo Gymnasium in the Mindanao State University in Marawi today,” Hataman declared. He called upon the authorities to leave no stone unturned in their investigation, ensuring that justice is served for the victims and their families.
Cagayan de Oro City 2nd District Rep. Rufus Rodriguez, joining the chorus of condemnation, pledged his office’s close coordination with investigators to determine any possible victims from Cagayan de Oro and Misamis Oriental. He also promised to extend all possible assistance to them.
House Deputy Minority Leader and ACT Teachers Partylist Rep. France Castro echoed the sentiments of her colleagues, condemning the bombing as an utterly deplorable act of violence. “Our hearts go out to the victims and their families, and we stand in solidarity with the entire MSU community during this difficult time,” Castro expressed.
The collective condemnation from lawmakers emphasizes the gravity of the situation and the urgent need for justice to prevail. The bombing at Mindanao State University has not only caused immense loss and grief but has also struck at the heart of the ongoing efforts to establish peace and stability in Marawi. It is imperative that authorities conduct a thorough investigation to bring the perpetrators to justice and ensure that such acts of violence are not tolerated.
In the face of this tragedy, the call for solidarity among the community is vital. By standing together, providing support and strength to one another, the nation can begin the healing process and work towards preventing future acts of violence. Let this condemnation serve as a reminder that unity is the key to overcoming adversity and building a society where peace and stability can thrive.
Source: The Manila Times
