Prayers offered for Marawi, Pigcawayan victims

KIDAPAWAN CITY, June 23 -– The local government here through the Diocese of Kidapawan on Friday, dedicated a community prayer for the victims of conflict in Marawi City and Pigcawayan town in North Cotabato.

Fr. Ludwin Alerta, a Diocesan clergy, celebrated the Friday Mass the City Hall building attended by local officials and employees who offered solemnity prayer for the restoration of peace and safety for civilians halted by hunger, fear and hopelessness.


Held in celebration of the feast day of “Sacred Heart of Jesus,” Alerta, reiterated the value of mercy, love and compassion and its significance to the current crisis faced by humanity.

"We should learn to imitate these good deeds to others, which I believe are the strong foundation of lasting peace and unity that everybody deserve," the priest emphasized.

After the mass, a community prayer was recited and followed by the release of white balloons inked with "messages of hope and peace."


The prayer also cited the bereaved families to strengthen their faith and regain smiles through the community.


Mayor Joseph Evangelista urged employees to extend their prayers and extend their arms in helping the victims of atrocities and help the government in building sturdy perimeters against the threat of state enemies.


The community prayer was offered due to the continuing offensive operations in Marawi City against the Maute terrorist and the recent attack of hundred Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in a remote village in Pigcawayan, North Cotabato.


Both atrocities forced thousand families to flee and claimed hundred deaths and injured among civilians, military and rebels. (John Andrew G. Tabugoc/PNA)