JUST IN: Four Killed in Bomb Attack on Catholic Mass in Southern Philippines

In a tragic incident on December 3, 2023, a bomb exploded during a Catholic mass at Mindanao State University’s gymnasium in Marawi, resulting in at least four fatalities and around 50 injuries. The blast, attributed to an improvised explosive device, occurred during the morning service, causing chaos among worshippers.

Police Lieutenant General Emmanuel Peralta confirmed the death toll, originally reported as three, while President Ferdinand Marcos attributed the attack to “foreign terrorists.” The incident is suspected to be a retaliatory measure following recent military operations against Islamist militant groups in the region.

Witnesses described the suddenness of the explosion, with people fleeing in panic. Photos shared on social media showed overturned chairs, shattered glass, and debris in the aftermath.

President Marcos condemned the attack as “senseless” and “heinous,” while Mindanao State University suspended classes, expressing solidarity with the affected Christian community. Marawi city Mayor Majul Gandamra called for unity among Muslim and Christian communities against such acts of violence.

Military chief General Romeo Brawner suggested a possible link to revenge for recent operations against Islamist groups, particularly highlighting the involvement of Maute-ISIS. Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro indicated strong indications of a foreign element in the attack.

Lanao del Sur and Maguindanao del Sur, part of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region, have been areas marked by historical unrest. Despite a peace pact signed in 2014 with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, sporadic militant attacks persist, with smaller groups opposing the peace deal, including those professing allegiance to the Islamic State group. The Bangsamoro Government Chief Minister, Ahod Ebrahim, condemned the “cowardly acts” and called for a thorough investigation into the incident.