VP Sara Duterte Urges Mindanaoans to Remain Resilient Following Marawi Bombing

Marawi – In the wake of the recent bombing in Marawi, Lanao del Sur, Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Z. Duterte addressed the nation, particularly urging Mindanaoans to maintain calm and strength.

According to Philippines News Agency, Duterte labeled the attackers as daring yet cowardly, targeting civilians within the Mindanao State University compound in a Catholic church, a region with a history of terrorism. She extended her sympathies to the victims and strongly condemned the perpetrators.

Duterte emphasized the need for vigilance and caution to prevent further attacks on civilians. The incident has sparked widespread reactions, with Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri expressing anger and dismay at the violence in Marawi, especially after years of peaceful coexistence in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. Zubiri, alongside other lawmakers including Senator Ronald Dela Rosa and Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel III, denounced the bombing and called for justice and peace.

PDP-Laban members, including former senator Manny Pacquiao, jointly stated their sympathies to the affected families and the Mindanao State University community. They stressed the importance of a thorough investigation to ensure justice for the victims and to hold the perpetrators accountable. The party stands united against the act that targets innocent civilians.

Recalling the September 2, 2016 bombing in Davao City, Duterte reminded the public of the fear and pain caused by such acts of terrorism. She urged the nation, particularly those in Mindanao, to remain strong and united against the continuous threat of terrorism and to resist allowing evil deeds to triumph over peace.