World leaders condemn ‘cowardly’ Jolo cathedral bombings
MANILA, Philippines — Members of the international community denounced the bombing of a Catholic cathderal in Jolo, Sulu that killed at least 20 people and wounded around 81 people, mostly churchgoers.
In a statement, Yousef Al-Othaimeen, secretary-general of the 57-nation Organization of Islamic Cooperation, expressed his “deep indignation” at Sunday’s twin blasts that ripped through Our Lady of Mount Carmel Cathedral during Sunday morning services.
He said the OIC—the world’s largest body of Muslim-majority countries—rejects all forms of violence, extremism and terrorism.
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres expressed condolences to the families of the victims and wished a prompt recovery to the injured.
“The secretary-general calls for the perpetrators of these crimes to be swiftly brought to justice,” Guterres said in a statement.
In a separate statement, the United Nations System in the Philippines said the attack—which took place few days after the ratification of the Bangsamoro Organic Law—“should strengthen the resolve of all responsible parties to pursue lasting peace in a region that has suffered from conflict for far too long.”
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau called the twin blasts a “despicable act of cowardice.”
Russian President Vladimir Putin, for his part, also extended his sympathies.
“A crime committed against civilians who had congregated for church services is shocking in its cynicism and cruelty. I expect that the masterminds and perpetrators of this crime will sustain the punishment they deserve,” he said.
Pledges of support
Putin also expressed Moscow’s readiness to “further step up interaction with our Philippine partners in combating the terrorist threats in all its forms and manifestation.”
The East Asian and Pacific Affairs of the US State Department likewise said it remains committed to its counter-terrorism partnership with the Philippine government.
The World Bank also expressed readiness to extend it support to the Philippines.
“The World Bank stands ready to extend support to the Philippines through our longstanding and ongoing partnerships for peace and development in Mindanao,” it said.
The Islamic State group claimed responsibility for the attack, with its “East Asia Province” issuing a formal communiqué for the dual bombings. It, however, did not provide evidence for its claim.
Philippine authorities are looking into “several threat groups” behind the Jolo bombings, Director General Oscar Albayalde, Philippine National Police chief, said Monday. — Gaea Katreena Cabico
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