The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has strongly condemned the acts of terror committed in Marawi City, Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), Southern Philippines, which took place on 23 May 2017 including the kidnapping and hostage taking of innocent civilians and religious leaders. These are serious crimes committed by a group of criminals and outlaws for the purpose of ransom, extortion and terror which are in contradiction to the tenets of Islam, its noble principles and universal human values.

The OIC Secretary General, Yousef A. Al-Othaimeen, conveyed his condolences to the families of the victims, to the government, the Bangsamoro people and the entire Philippine nation. He reaffirmed the OIC’s principled and resolute position against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.

At the same time, the Secretary General expressed his hope that the response to this grave threat to public safety would be proportional to the threats being faced. He expressed concern about the adverse effects of prolonged state of martial law on the peace process, security and developmental aspects of the Southern Philippines region.

The Secretary General expressed the firm support of the OIC to the peace process and reiterated its willingness to work with the Philippine administration for that purpose.