UN Secretary-General denounces attack in Philippines

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres on Monday condemned the attack on a church in southern Philippines, and called for swift punishment to the perpetrators, a statement said here on Monday.

The Secretary-General expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and wished a speedy recovery to the injured.

‘The Secretary-General calls for the perpetrators of these crimes to be swiftly brought to justice,’ the statement said.

The twin bombings ripped through the Jolo Cathedral in the island province of Sulu in southern Philippines.

The attack occurred during Sunday morning services and around 20 people died and 80 injured.

Mr Guterres reiterated the support of the United Nations to the Philippines Government and people in their efforts to fight terrorism and violent extremism, and to carry forward the peace process. (UNI)