The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) strongly condemns the heinous act of terror that transpired in Mindanao State University (MSU), Marawi City, on Sunday, December 3, 2023.
At approximately 7:14 a.m., during the first Sunday of Advent mass attended by students and teachers, an explosion rocked the Dimaporo Gymnasium, resulting in the loss of four lives and injury of at least 50 individuals.
We extend our deepest condolences to the families of the victims. Rest assured that units on the ground have already heightened security measures in and around Marawi City to prevent any further harm to the community.
Local Terrorist Groups are now resorting to bombing as their preferred course of action to magnify their terrorist acts as it often attracts domestic and international attention. Terrorist groups often employ similar tactics and strategies to create chaos and instill fear, similar to the cathedral bombing in Jolo Sulu in 2019. Such incident whether or not motivated by religious tensions should be condemned regardless of the perpetrators' motives.
The AFP will collaborate closely with local law enforcement agencies to ensure a swift and thorough investigation of the incident. Our priority is to bring to justice the perpetrators of this treacherous attack and to thwart further threat against our people.
We remain steadfast in our commitment to protect the people and the state. We urge the public to remain vigilant and cooperative with the authorities. We will not be swayed by acts of terror, and together, we will prevail over those who seek to destroy our peace.///
