OPAPRU AND BARMM’S RAPID RESPONSE: AIDING VICTIMS OF THE MSU BOMBING

IN the aftermath of the tragic bombing at the Dimaporo Gymnasium of the Mindanao State University Main Campus last December 3, the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU) and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) have demonstrated commendable unity and efficiency in extending assistance to the victims and their families in Marawi City.

Presidential Peace Adviser Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. stood side by side with BARMM Chief Minister Ahod Al-Hadj Murad Ebrahim, officials from the Ministry of Social Services and Development (MSSD), and other Bangsamoro government agencies to visit the victims recovering in hospitals. This swift response underscores the commitment of the government to provide immediate support to those affected by the senseless act of violence.

The collaborative effort included MSU President Atty. Basari Mapupuno, Gov. Abdulraof Macacua of Maguindanao del Norte, and the gracious welcome of Lanao del Sur Gov. Mamintal Adiong Jr. This united front reflects a crucial aspect of governance, where leaders come together in times of crisis to prioritize the well-being of their constituents.

Through MSSD’s Bangsamoro Critical Assistance for Indigents in Response to Emergency Situations (B-CARES) program, six patients at Amai Pakpak Medical Center (APMC) received Php25,000 each for their medical and basic needs. This financial aid, aligned with Chief Minister Ebrahim’s directive, ensures that the victims receive immediate and necessary support.

Furthermore, MSSD officials, led by Minister Raissa Jajurie, extended their assistance beyond Marawi City. Cash aid was delivered to the families of those who lost their lives in the bombing in Iligan City, exemplifying a comprehensive and compassionate approach to addressing the repercussions of such tragic events.

The dedication of Adelaida Mohamad Ali, the MSSD’s Provincial Monitoring and Evaluation Officer, and the MSSD social workers to conduct mental health and psychosocial support for MSU-Main Campus Marawi students underscores the government’s commitment to the holistic well-being of the affected community. The forthcoming assessment of deceased victims’ families for further interventions emphasizes a sustained and empathetic response to the long-term effects of the incident.

The prompt meeting and on-site inspection conducted by university officials, national and regional agencies, and security sector personnel indicate a coordinated effort to not only address the immediate aftermath but also to prevent future occurrences. This proactive approach is crucial for fostering a safe and secure environment for educational institutions and the communities they serve.

In conclusion, the collaborative efforts of OPAPRU and BARMM in response to the Mindanao State University bombing demonstrate an exemplary model of unity and efficiency in times of crisis. The quick and comprehensive support provided to the victims and their families reflects a government dedicated to the well-being of its citizens, setting a commendable precedent for addressing and preventing acts of violence in the region.

***

Catch Gilbert Perdez’s “Barangay 882” radio show every Saturday from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Tune in via ALIW Channel 23, DWIZ AM Radio, the DWIZ 882 Facebook page, or DWIZ ON-DEMAND on YouTube. You can contact him via email at gil.playwright@gmail.com or through this number: 0991-3543676.