By Brian Jules Campued
The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) on Tuesday condemned the grenade attack at a Catholic chapel in Cotabato City, injuring two churchgoers.
The blast occurred on May 19 which coincided with the observance of Pentecost Sunday.
According to the Public Safety Office of Cotabato City, the grenade was thrown by two motorcycle-riding suspects at the Sr. Sto. Niño Chapel in Purok Bagong Silang, Barangay Rosario Heights 3 at around 10:40 a.m.
In a statement, OPAPRU Sec. Carlito Galvez Jr. said the incident “is a direct attack on the Filipino people’s commitment to religious freedom and peaceful co-existence and blatant disregard for human life.”
Galvez added that the national government would ensure that the perpetrators will be held accountable for their actions and be brought to justice.
“Rest assured that this act of terror, which has no other aim but to sow fear, animosity and mistrust, will not slow down or dampen our resolve to achieving lasting peace, mutual understanding and solidarity in the Bangsamoro,” the OPAPRU chief said.
The peace adviser extended sympathies to the families of the wounded victims and likewise, wished for their swift recovery.
“We stand in solidarity with the Catholic community of Cotabato City and the entire Bangsamoro region during these unforeseen challenges,” Galvez said. – avds
