Four people were killed while at least 10 others were wounded in the bombing incident at the gymnasium of the Mindanao State University (MSU) main campus in Marawi City early Sunday, December 3, 2023, the Provincial Police Office Lanao del Sur confirmed.

The explosion occurred during a religious Mass.

The victims were taken to the Amai Pakpak Medical Center.

The City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) and City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWD) of Marawi City provided assistance with CSWD distributing packed meals to students staying at dormitories.

CDRRMO personnel also responded to the gymnasium to help law enforcement agencies process the blast site.

CLASSES SUSPENDED

MSU suspended classes at its main campus. The Marawi campus has two extension campuses. The MSU system, as a whole, has 10 other campuses.

In a statement, MSU says it is saddened and appalled by the violent act. It will deploy additional security personnel at the main campus.

“The Mindanao State University (MSU) community is deeply saddened and appalled by the act of violence that occurred during a religious gathering at the university gymnasium this morning. We unequivocally condemn in the strongest possible terms this senseless and horrific act and extend our heartfelt condolences to the victims and their families. We are committed to providing support and assistance to those affected by this tragedy.

Our immediate priority is to ensure the safety and well-being of all constituents, particularly our Christian community. We are aware of the heightened sensitivities and concerns that arise from such a tragic event, and we want to assure everyone that we are taking every measure possible to protect our students, faculty, and staff.

The university administration has suspended classes until further notice and has deployed additional security personnel to safeguard the campus. We are also working closely with the local government units and law enforcement authorities to investigate this incident and bring the perpetrators to justice.

We stand in solidarity with our Christian community and all those affected by this tragedy. We will not be deterred by this act of violence, and we will continue to work towards building a more peaceful and just MSU community.

Violence has no place in a civilized society, and it is particularly abhorrent in an institution of higher learning like MSU, a bulwark of peace, harmony, solidarity, reverence for life and humanity. This attack is an assault on our core values and our commitment to creating a safe and inclusive community for all.”

STATEMENTS OF CONDEMNATION

In his statement, Lanao del Sur Governor Mamintal Adiong, Jr. condemned the explosion and called on authorities to get to the bottom of things immediately. He assured that justice will be served.

“I condemn the violent bombing incident that transpired this morning at the Dimaporo Gymnasium at the Mindanao State University during a Sunday Mass congregation.

Here in my province, we uphold basic human rights, and that includes the right to religion. Terroristic attacks on educational institutions must also be condemned because these are places that promote the culture of peace and mold our youth to be the future shapers of this country.

I urge the security sector to get to the bottom of this immediately.

To the families of those whose lives were lost in this senseless act of violence and terrorism, please accept our deepest condolences and sympathies. We will make sure justice will be served.”

In a separate statement, Marawi City Mayor Majul Gandamra said the incident "should not be allowed to undermine the good relationship Muslims and Christians in Marawi.

"I strongly condemn the horrific bombing incident that occurred earlier today at the Dimaporo Gymnasium at Mindanao State University. This senseless act of violence has caused immense sorrow and pain, and our thoughts and prayers go out to the families of those who have lost their loved ones.

The local government unit of Marawi stands united with the Marawi City Police, Provincial PNP Office, Marawi Task Force, and the MSU Peace Keeping Force in their efforts to respond swiftly and effectively to this tragedy. We are closely coordinating with the security task force on campus to ensure that those responsible for this heinous act are found and brought to JUSTICE WITHOUT DELAY!

I urge the public to exercise caution and refrain from spreading unverified information about the incident. We must rely on official reports from the authorities to obtain accurate information. Disseminating unverified information can only cause panic and further distress to an already traumatized community.

This incident should not be allowed to undermine the good relationship that exists between our Muslim and Christian communities in Marawi. Our city has long been a beacon of peaceful coexistence and harmony, and we will not allow such acts of violence to overshadow our collective commitment to peace and unity.

During this time of grief, let us join together as one community and offer our prayers and support to the families affected by this tragedy. We stand in solidarity with them and will extend our assistance to help them through this challenging period.

We call upon all residents of Marawi City and the surrounding areas to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities. Together, we will stand firm against those who seek to disrupt our peace and harmony.

May justice be swiftly served, and peace prevail in Mindanao State University and the entire Marawi City!"

(with Alwen Saliring/GMA Regional TV One Mindanao)