By Matters India reporter
Yangon, Jan. 27, 2019: Cardinal Charles Bo, president of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences on January 27 condemned two blasts that killed at least 20 people in a Philippines cathedral earlier in the day.
“I strongly condemn this dastardly act in which brothers killed brothers while they are at prayer worshipping God. This cowardly act is utterly inhuman under whatever political or religious calm one makes,” the cardinal from Myanmar said in his condolence message.
The prelate sought prayers from Catholics in Asia for peace and reconciliation for the Jolo community in the Philippines that includes Christians and Muslims.
Two bombs at the Cathedral of Our Lady of Mount Carmel of Jolo, the capital of Sulu province in southern Philippines, killed at least 20 people and injured dozens more, local officials say.
The first blast happened as Sunday Mass was being celebrated. As soldiers responded, a second device was detonated in the car park.
The attack comes days after a majority-Muslim area in the region voted for greater autonomy in a referendum.
No group has so far claimed responsibility for the attack. Jolo has long been a base for militants including those of the Abu Sayyaf group.
The local officials said the first blast happened at 8:45 am (6: India time) inside the cathedral that has been hit by bombs in the past.
The second explosion was shortly afterwards on the doorstep of the church.