By Matters India Reporter
Manila, Jan. 29, 2019: The Christian Conference of Asia (CCA) has condemned the bomb blasts in a Philippines church that killed more than 20 people and wounded 100.
The bomb blasts took place on January 27 at the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Cathedral in Barangay Walled City, Jolo, in the Sulu province of the Philippines; just days after a regional vote backed the establishment of a new Muslim Autonomous Region.
While condemning the bombing, CCA General Secretary Mathews George Chunakara stated, “Such an act of violence against the worshippers, and insolence at a sacred place, is an utter disregard for human life and people’s right to live in peace.”
The Indian Church leader based in Hong Kong offered prayers and expressed sympathy and condolences to the families of the victims and wished a speedy and full recovery to those who were injured.
“With the creation of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), the CCA appeals to Christians in the region to be in unity with all peace-loving Muslim and indigenous communities and work together against violent extremism,” he said.
“We wish and pray that the Jolo blasts will not derail the quest for peace in Mindanao. May all our religions of peace enlighten us in our pursuit for an optimistic future for the peoples of Mindanao. May God deliver us from evil and lead us to peace,” said Chunakara.
The twin bomb blasts were among the deadliest in recent years in a region long plagued by instability.
Two improvised explosive devices (IEDs) exploded at an interval of a few minutes. Parishioners and civilians in the area panicked and scampered for safety.
About 85 percent of the 2.8 million people supported the referendum calling for the creation of a new self-administered region, while voters in the Sulu province, which includes Jolo, rejected it. Despite Sulu’s majority negative votes, it will still be incorporated into the new Autonomous Region.