Cotabato chapel blast ‘direct attack’ on religious freedom

MANILA, Philippines — The grenade attack at a Catholic chapel in Cotabato City was a “direct attack” on religious freedom and peaceful co-existence, Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) Carlito Galvez Jr. said yesterday.

He said the OPAPRU condemns the grenade attack, which was carried out on Pentecost, a day of religious significance for Catholics.

“We extend our deepest sympathies to the families of those injured in this incident and wish them a full and swift recovery,” Galvez said.

He said the national government would ensure that the perpetrators are held accountable for their actions.

“Rest assured that this act of terror, which has no other aim but to sow fear, animosity and mistrust, will not slow down or dampen our resolve to achieving lasting peace, mutual understanding and solidarity in the Bangsamoro,” Galvez said.

Emeritus Cotabato Archbishop Orlando Cardinal Quevedo asked the government to conduct a thorough investigation of the incident and arrest the perpetrators.

”The dastardly bombing of a Catholic chapel is a horrendous sacrilegous act that cries out to heaven,” Quevedo said.

Marybel Atis, 40, and Rosita Tubilo, 65, were praying at the Sto. Niño Chapel in Barangay Rosary Heights 3 when the grenade exploded. They suffered shrapnel wounds.

Reports said two motorcycle-riding men pulled over by the entrance of the chapel and hurled a grenade.