The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines has condemned the bombing incident inside the campus of the Mindanao State University on Sunday morning, Dec. 3.
Kidapawan Bishop Jose Colin Bagaforo, chairman of the CBCP Social Action Justice and Peace Commission and president of Caritas Philippines said violence must never be tolerated as he called for a thorough investigation on the incident.
The Church leader also called on authorities to secure the safety and well being of all those who are affected by the attack especially as the celebration of Christmas nears.
“Caritas Philippines calls for a thorough and expeditious investigation into this heinous act. The perpetrators must be swiftly identified, apprehended, and brought to justice to ensure that such atrocities do not go unpunished,” said Bishop Bagaforo over Radio Veritas.
The Philippine National Police said the bombing incident occurred at 7:10 a.m. at the Dimaparo Gymnasium of the MSU while students and university officials were attending a holy mass.
“I am appalled by the blatant act of terror that the perpetrators were able to commit especially at this time when we are celebrating the Mindanao Week of Peace,” the prelate lamented.
Bishop Bagaforo expressed his condolences to the families of the fatalities as he joined the whole community of MSU in condemning the attack. He likewise appealed for unity in Mindanao despite differences in beliefs, views and traditions.
“Caritas Philippines urges all stakeholders, including the government, religious leaders, and the community, as a whole, to collaborate in fostering an environment of peace despite the incident,” said Bishop Bagaforo.
“Concerted efforts must be made to prevent the recurrence of such violent incidents and to safeguard the fundamental right to worship without fear of anyone,” he added.
According to reports, three persons died while around 40 were injured as a result of the bombing incident which took place as Christians celebrate the First Sunday of Advent on Dec. 3.