The group in charge of handling the Bangsamoro regional government's relations with the national government said the bombing in Marawi is a major setback to peace efforts in the area.

Budget Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman said the explosion that occurred at a state university in Marawi City on Sunday morning, resulting in the deaths of at least four individuals, is a deeply unsettling tragedy.

“This is a great setback to our efforts for lasting peace, and is especially repugnant at a university like MSU [Mindanao State University], which stands for harmony, peace, unity, and a deep respect for human life,” the budget chief said in a statement.

Pangandaman leads the National Government-Bangsamoro Government Intergovernmental Relations Body (IGRB), which handles the relationship between the Bangsamoro regional government and the Philippine government.

“As Co-Chair of the IGRB, we have been working hard upon the orders of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to establish a lasting peace that will lead to development and prosperity in Mindanao. This is a great setback to our efforts,” she said.

Meanwhile, Pangandaman expressed her sympathy and solidarity with those affected by the tragic event.

“My heart goes out as well to MSU, which not only stands for peace, unity, and a deep respect for human life, but is also home to our Mindanaoan youth,” Pangandaman said. “I extend my sincerest condolences and pray for the victims and their families.”

“Rest assured I will be working very hard with the corresponding officials - both from the National Government and BARMM - to ensure that peace and security, especially in this area of Mindanao is restored,” she added.