A homemade bomb exploded Thursday last week inside a passenger bus in Koronadal City, South Cotabato, wounding two people in the latest possible terror attacks in the region. The blast occurred as the military confirmed Abu Turaife, one of the leaders of militant group linked to Islamic State, was wounded along with 16 other fighters in Maguindanao.
MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has condemned the recent bombings that rocked different areas in Mindanao, saying that these attacks go against the government’s efforts for peace and security in the region.
CHR Executive Director Jacqueline de Guia said in a statement on Friday that they have been monitoring the developments on the bombing of a bus in Koronadal City, South Cotabato; a transport terminal in Tacurong, Sultan Kudarat last May 26, and the explosion that occurred near a bus garage and a fast food chain in Isabela City, Basilan.
Such attacks, de Guia said, run counter to the ideals of international humanitarian law.
“Over the past days, the [CHR] has been monitoring the recent bombing incidences that occurring in Mindanao […] CHR strongly condemns these incidences of violence and indiscriminate bombings, which run counter to the principles of international humanitarian law,” de Guia said.
“CHR reiterates its strong condemnation against any act of armed rebellion that seek to terrorize and sow discord into the lives of people. These attacks run counter to peace and security efforts of the government and is inimical to the country’s national development,” she added.
De Guia said CHR would conduct its own investigation on the recent bombings.
“We pray for quick recovery for those hurt in the blasts in Mindanao. CHR for its part will be conducting a motu propio investigation through its regional offices and coordinate efforts with the Bangsamoro Human Rights Commission in the conduct of its parallel investigation with local authorities in pursuit of justice for the victims hurt in these terroristic incidents,” she said.
Recently, the Philippine National Police (PNP) heightened security measures in Metro Manila following the bombings.
According to PNP officer-in-charge Lt. Gen. Vicente Danao Jr., the bombing of the bus liner in Koronadal was the handiwork of extortionists.
READ: PNP heightens alert in Metro Manila after recent Mindanao bombings \
READ: Bus bombing in Koronadal came after extortion attempt on liner — Danao