IS claims responsibility for deadly bombing in Philippines

The Islamic State (IS) has claimed responsibility for a bombing that killed at least four people and injured 50 in the Philippines on December 3, Reuters reported.

The attack took place at a gymnasium at the University of Mindanao in the southern city of Marawi, which was besieged by Islamist militants for five months in 2017.

Scene of the bombing on December 3

In response to the IS statement, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. condemned the "most senseless and heinous acts committed by foreign terrorists." Police and military are tightening security in the south of the country and around the capital Manila.

Speaking at a press conference on December 3, Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro said that law enforcement operations to bring perpetrators of "terrorist activities" to justice would "continue unabated".

Mr Teodoro said there were "clear indications of a foreign element" in the bombing, but declined to provide details so as not to affect the ongoing investigation.

According to Armed Forces of the Philippines Commander Romeo Brawner, the bombing in Marawi was a retaliatory attack, as it occurred after a series of military operations conducted by the government against armed groups supporting IS, Benar News reported.

The University of Mindanao said in a Facebook post that it was “deeply saddened and appalled by the violence” and “strongly condemns this senseless and horrific act.” Classes at the school have been suspended until further notice.

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