We are
deeply disturbed and express our sincerest condolences and solidarity to the
families and friends of the victims of the twin bombing attacks at the
Cathedral of Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Jolo Sulu during a morning mass last
January 27. We are indignant about the loss of lives of innocent civilians and
members of the Armed Forces in this senseless and brutal attack.
This is
unacceptable. It is a clear attempt on the part of the perpetrators to
undermine pursuits towards peace. It shows their contempt to sincere efforts of
building bridges between conflicting parties. What is worst, it creates a state
of fear, confusion, anger that can hinder us to think clearly, to be critical
and remain steadfast in peace building.
"We
are very sad and at the same time stunned when we learned about the incident.
The victims are just ordinary church goers fulfilling their Sunday duty as
Christians. We find this act deplorable. Its timing is appalling and has no
place in community struggling to build peace in Mindanao at this point in
time”, Community Health Based Program staff of the Diocese of Ipil and PMPI
ZAMBASULI Cluster point-person, Joy Teves said.
“We surmise that this was staged in a catholic
church, to hide its real intention and instead fan the flames of animosities
and divide among Christians and Muslims. Let us not fall into this trap. Let
not the carrier of war and violence overshadow the victory of the recently
concluded plebiscite on Bangsomoro Organic Law. Its ratification is an
affirmation of a people longing and wanting peace to reign in our land”, PMPI
National Coordinator Yolly Esguerra said.
We urge
the authorities to conduct a thorough investigation and make the perpetrators
accountable for this atrocious act. We ask our fellow citizens to remain calm
and vigilant in the face of this vicious challenge to peace making. And even as
we are enraged, we offer prayers to the victims and their families. May they be
consoled by the thought that their loved ones are martyrs of Peace. May their
demise guide us in our quest for lasting peace in our country.
Philippine
Misereor Partnership Inc. (PMPI), is a social development and advocacy network
composed of 250 faith-based groups, non-government organizations and people’s
organization spread in 15 regional clusters in the country.
Jerico
R. Catalla
Communications
and Information Officer
Philippine-Misereor
Partnership, Inc. (PMPI)
Pacific
Century Tower 1472-1476
Brgy.
South Triangle, Quezon Ave. Quezon City, Philippines
Contact
number: +639176244320
http://pmpi.org.ph/
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