The University of the Philippines stands in solidarity with Mindanao State University (MSU), after an explosion at the Marawi main campus that left four dead and dozens injured. This was an act of violence not only against the innocent victims and their families, but against the principles of peace, understanding, and unity that should be inviolable in academic institutions.
We commend the swift response of MSU and its commitment to protecting the safety of all its constituents in this difficult time, and offer our support and resources in navigating the aftermath of this painful incident. State universities should serve as safe spaces for all its constituents, and as academic bastions where conflicts are discussed, debated, and resolved rather than exacerbated. It is imperative for all of us to be united in our mandate to cultivate an atmosphere where diversity and dialogue thrive.
As a Mindanaoan Christian and Manobo lumad, I share in the grief and outrage of the community over this senseless tragedy. Despite the long history of strife in our region, many of us have always believed in justice and equality among the Bangsamoro peoples, actively working to ensure the recognition and protection of all cultures and religions. Let us all rally against violence and extremism, and join in the continuing effort to build a just and inclusive society in our homeland.
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