Official Statement from the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA)
Secretary Datu Hj. Abul Khayr D. Alonto
Chairman, MinDA
Davao City, May 24, 2017
 

Assalamu Alaikum w.w.

In light of the recent developments, we appeal for sobriety and request everyone to refrain from spreading unverified stories and reports that could aggravate the current situation in Marawi City and Mindanao in general. We also appeal to the government authorities for the immediate resolution of the conflict and ensure the security of the affected families.

The Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) condemns in the strongest terms possible the acts of terror perpetrated by the Maute Group on the people of Marawi City. We call on the government to deal with the perpetrators of these horrible acts without any compromise and put them to justice.

MinDA fully supports the declaration of President Rodrigo Duterte for a 60-day Martial Law in Mindanao. The agency is ready to fulfill whatever role it has to assume in accordance to its legal mandates in support to the President and the people of the Republic. Rest assured that there is no letting up in our pursuit for economic progress and sustainable peace in the island-region.

It is unfortunate that this incident in Marawi happened days prior to the observance of the Holy Month of Ramadan, and we call on our brothers and sisters to continue praying for the safety of everyone.

We cannot let terror, lawlessness, and violence shatter what we have built for Mindanao all these years. We call on our fellow Mindanawons to stay the course – be vigilant, but continue to be warriors of peace by spreading hope not fear.

Now is the best time to set our differences aside and work towards helping Marawi City and the rest of Mindanao rise from this stronger. Let us show the world that Mindanawons can stand as one, even amidst adversities. 

The Mindanawon spirit is resilient. It is without doubt that we can overcome this atrocity and end up victorious in our fight for justice, equality, and peace.

Wasalaam.