At least 20 dead in church bombing in southern Philippines
- 5 years ago
At least 20 people have been killed and dozens more injured in southern Philippines.... after two bombs ripped through a Roman Catholic cathedral.
Ro Aram has more.
The Islamic State group said it was behind the attack on Jolo island, where jihadist groups are active.
The first bomb targeted Sunday Mass, causing churchgoers to flee the building.
Soldiers posted outside were rushing in when the second bomb went off about a minute later, causing more deaths and injuries.
Officials revised the death toll from 27 to 20 due to double counting.
The fatalities included 15 civilians and five troops.
The nation's military and the police have secured the area and all casualties were immediately evacuated,
Jolo has long been a base for militants, including those of the Abu Sayyaf group, which has declared allegiance to ISIS.
Pope Francis condemned the deadly attack.
"We ask Christ and the Virgin for the victims of the terrorist attack that took place this Sunday in the Cathedral of Jolo in the Philippines, while Mass was taking place. I reiterate my most firm rejection to this episode of violence that spreads mourning to this Christian community."
The bombings came just days after a majority-Muslim area in the region voted for greater autonomy.
The referendum seeks to bring a peaceful resolution between the government and the rebel group the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.
Only the town of Jolo voted "no" in the referendum.
Ro Aram, Arirang News.
Ro Aram has more.
The Islamic State group said it was behind the attack on Jolo island, where jihadist groups are active.
The first bomb targeted Sunday Mass, causing churchgoers to flee the building.
Soldiers posted outside were rushing in when the second bomb went off about a minute later, causing more deaths and injuries.
Officials revised the death toll from 27 to 20 due to double counting.
The fatalities included 15 civilians and five troops.
The nation's military and the police have secured the area and all casualties were immediately evacuated,
Jolo has long been a base for militants, including those of the Abu Sayyaf group, which has declared allegiance to ISIS.
Pope Francis condemned the deadly attack.
"We ask Christ and the Virgin for the victims of the terrorist attack that took place this Sunday in the Cathedral of Jolo in the Philippines, while Mass was taking place. I reiterate my most firm rejection to this episode of violence that spreads mourning to this Christian community."
The bombings came just days after a majority-Muslim area in the region voted for greater autonomy.
The referendum seeks to bring a peaceful resolution between the government and the rebel group the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.
Only the town of Jolo voted "no" in the referendum.
Ro Aram, Arirang News.