Mindanao solon on MSU bombing: 'This act of violence will not define us' 

Cagayan de Oro City 2nd district Rep. Rufus Rodriguez (Facebook)

'"This act of violence will not define us." 

Cagayan de Oro City 2nd district Rep. Rufus Rodriguez gave this remark Sunday, Dec. 3 in connection with the "despicable" bombing of Mindanao State University (MSU) in Marawi City. 

"The bombing at Dimaporo Gymnasium during a Sunday mass congregation at [MSU] is a despicable act of violence that strikes at the very soul of our nation," Rodriguez said in a statement. 

"We vehemently condemn this heinous assault on the sacred space of worship and unity. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families during this painful time," he said. 

Despite feeling these strong emotions, the Mindanaoan declared: "This act of violence will not define us; instead, it will fortify our commitment to justice, resilience, and the unwavering pursuit of a harmonious and inclusive society." 

"In the face of such adversity, we stand resolute, united against those who seek to undermine the values of peace and solidarity between Christians and Muslims," he said. 

"We call upon the authorities to swiftly investigate this incident and bring the perpetrators to justice. We request the BARMM (Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao) govertment to assist our authoritied to bring the perpetrators to Justice," added Rodriguez. 

He said that his office would closely coordinate with the investigators to determine any possible victims from Cagayan de Oro and Misamis Oriental and extend all possible assistance to them.