EU expresses solidarity with PH after Davao bombing

Police officers look at the bodies of victims after an explosion Friday night at a night market in Davao City left 14 people dead and wounded 67 others. The European Union condoled with families of the victims of the blast on Sept. 2, 2016. AP

The European Union (EU) has extended its sympathies to the relatives of those killed in the blast that hit a night market in Davao City Friday night.

“The European Union stands in solidarity with the people and the Government of the Philippines following yesterday evening’s bomb attack in the city of Davao,” it said in a statement released Saturday.

“Our sincere condolences go to the families and friends of those who were killed, and we wish a quick recovery to those who were injured,” it said.

The death toll has risen to 14 while 67 were reported hurt in an explosion reportedly claimed by a terrorist organization allied with the bandit group Abu Sayyaf.

READ: Abu Sayyaf disowns Davao explosion; says ally was behind attack

The EU said it prioritizes the tackling of the issue of terrorism “in any form and in any country.”

“The international community is working together to counter this global threat, and we stand by the authorities in the Philippines in their efforts to provide stability and security for their citizens against this threat,” it said.

Abu Sayyaf spokesperson Abu Ramie said the group Daulat Ul Islamiya was behind the blast. He said Daulat did it to sympathize with the Abu Sayyaf, which is being pursued by thousands of soldiers in Sulu.

The EU is composed of more than 20 countries in Europe that enjoy free movement of people, goods, services and capital within an internal single market./rga