THE Mindanao State University (MSU) System is urging the public to remain calm and composed given an increase in security and ongoing investigation into a recent on-campus blast.
The explosion occurred at Dimaporo Gymnasium in the early hours of December 3, tragically resulting in four fatalities and leaving over 40 individuals wounded.
Engr. Rodrigo Baid, the Vice President for Planning and Development at MSU System, yesterday expressed his dismay at the incident, describing it as a heinous act that took place during a Eucharistic celebration.
Despite the unsettling nature of the event, Baid assured the public of the university’s commitment to ensuring the safety of everyone within the campus.
However, he acknowledged that it is difficult to fully prepare for such carefully planned and executed terrorist attacks.
Baid further clarified that this act of violence was an isolated incident and emphasized that university officials, local government, and security forces are actively working to secure the safety and security of all individuals.
In a message to the Christian and Catholic communities, Baid said, “Rest assured that the MSU administration is doing its best to contain and address this situation.”
The President of MSU system, Lawyer Basari Mapupuno, issued a strong condemnation of the bombing, acknowledging the distress, anger, and fear it has caused, particularly in the university’s Christian and Catholic community.
Mapupuno reminded everyone that terrorism recognizes no religious or socio-economic boundaries as he called for justice for the victims of the blast.
He also disclosed that meetings and consultations with relevant parties are currently underway to develop actionable strategies to prevent such an incident from happening again.
Despite the shock and fear surrounding the incident, the president emphasized the university’s resilience, stating that it should rise above this adversity.
He encouraged everyone to work together in moving through this difficult chapter and to continue embodying their institution’s mission of bringing hope and peace.
Mapupuno urged everyone to remain vigilant, cooperate with authorities, and utilize social media as a channel for unity instead of divisiveness.
He concluded by appealing to the community to continue to support and love their university, a place which has a long-standing tradition of providing hope and inspiration for its students and alumni. (With a report from PIA-10)
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