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MANILA, Philippines—Australia on Thursday expressed deep concern over “signs of increasing lawlessness in parts of Mindanao” after at least 57 people were killed in the election-related massacre in Maguindanao.
In a statement, Australian Ambassador to the Philippines Rod Smith on Thursday said, “We are deeply concerned…that signs of increasing lawlessness in parts of Mindanao will inhibit our development cooperation activities and prevent the benefits of these programs reaching those who need them most,” noting that Australia remains a “committed” development partner of the country.
Smith also joined the international community’s condemnation of “the senseless and brutal killing” of civilians and journalists on November 23, and expressed condolences to the families of the victims.
“Politically-motivated killings and other forms of intimidation have no place in any society. Australia urges all political aspirants to participate in the political process in a lawful and peaceful way,” he said.
”Media representatives must also be allowed to report without fear of violence,” he added.
Earlier, the United Nations, the European Union, the British embassy, and the United States expressed similar outrage over the killings.
