Pope Francis has sent his sympathies to the families of those who were killed in the attacks claimed by the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters over the weekend.

In a message relayed to Cotabato Archbishop Orlando Cardinal Quevedo by Apostolic Nuncio Giuseppe Pinto, Vatican Secretary of State Pietro Parolin also expressed Pope Francis' sadness over the "senseless killings in Mindanao."

“The Holy Father was deeply saddened to learn on the senseless killing of innocent people in Mindanao, and he sends condolences to the families of those who lost their lives,” the statement read.

The BIFF has claimed the attacks but denied killing civilians. A spokesman said those who were killed were CAFGUs.

The attacks happened in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao and North Cotabato provinces on Christmas eve.

Responding army soldiers reportedly killed four rebels in the Sultan Kudarat attack.

The Pope is hoping that security and safety “will be established” in the troubled region “so that dialogue, tolerance and peace may enable each person to live free from fear.”

“He asks all believers to reject violence in the name of God who is love, and invokes abundant divine gifts of consolation, mercy and strength upon those affected by this tragedy,” added the statement.

At the same time, Pope Francis also called on the faithful to join him in praying for the victims and their families. —NB, GMA News