MikeLigalig.com

By Veronica Uy
Phil Daily Inquirer

United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon led an international outcry against the “brutal” violence in southern Philippines, where more than 40 civilians were killed in relation to the upcoming local elections.

Ban condemned “this heinous crime” and called for the perpetrators to be brought to justice in a statement issued by his spokesperson and released by the UN Manila office.

“The Secretary General extends heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and hopes that no effort will be spared to bring justice and to hold the perpetrators accountable,” the UN statement said.

British Ambassador to the Philippines Stephen Lillie also condemned the massacre and made the same call for the government to immediately “bring the perpetrators to justice.”

"I condemn this brutal massacre of innocent civilians, including women, journalists and lawyers. I hope that the authorities in the Philippines will take urgent action to bring the perpetrators to justice and prevent further escalation of violence in the run-up to next year's elections here," the ambassador said.

"Effective action will be crucial in maintaining confidence in the Philippines' commitment to protect human rights," Lillie said, also extending profound condolences to the families of the victims.

President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has declared a state of emergency in Maguindanao province, among other areas, following Monday’s killings, which have been described as the worst election-related violence in the nation’s history.

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