TOKYO – The Japanese government expressed condolences to the Philippines on Monday following a deadly bombing during a Catholic Mass on Sunday in a gymnasium at the Mindanao State University (MSU) in Marawi City, which claimed the lives of four people and left 50 others wounded.
In a statement, Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) Press Secretary Maki Kobayashi conveyed Japan’s prayers for the deceased and sincere condolences to the bereaved families. She also extended heartfelt sympathy to those injured in the tragic incident.
“Attacks against innocent citizens are unacceptable for any reason, and Japan firmly condemns terrorism in all its forms,” Kobayashi stated.
“Japan will continue to support the peace process in Mindanao under the conviction that stability in Mindanao is linked to peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific,” she added.
Philippine President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. strongly condemned “the senseless and most heinous acts perpetrated by foreign terrorists.”
On Monday, the Islamic State militants claimed responsibility for the attack, announcing on Telegram that its members had detonated the bomb. - Florenda Corpuz
