:Mindanao State University bombing

{{Main|Moro conflict|Philippines and the Islamic State|Siege of Marawi|Terrorism in the Philippines}}

Marawi is a Muslim-majority city in Lanao del Sur in Bangsamoro, an autonomous region in Mindanao in the southern Philippines, a country whose population is predominantly Catholic. In 2017, over 1,100 people were killed in a five-month siege between Islamic State-affiliated insurgents and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in Marawi.{{cite news |last1=Gomez |first1=Jim |title=Philippine president blames foreign militants for a bombing that killed 4 Christian worshippers |url=https://apnews.com/article/marawi-city-southern-philippines-marawi-state-university-explosion-f01092608d55b8a9d077f19149f16d0c |access-date=3 December 2023 |work=AP News |agency=Associated Press |date=3 December 2023 |language=en |archive-date=December 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231203225726/https://apnews.com/article/marawi-city-southern-philippines-marawi-state-university-explosion-f01092608d55b8a9d077f19149f16d0c |url-status=live }}

Mindanao State University is a government-run higher education institution in Marawi. There is a small chapel within the campus but it is not capable of accommodating churchgoers during Sunday, hence they usually held the Catholic Sunday Masses at the school's gymnasium.{{cite news |last1=Cabrera |first1=Ferdinandh |last2=Arguillas |first2=Carolyn |title=Cardinal Quevedo: "massacre during Sunday mass is a crime that cries out to heaven" but urges people to "let peace begin with our hearts" |url=https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2023/12/cardinal-quevedo-massacre-during-sunday-mass-is-a-crime-that-cries-out-to-heaven-but-let-peace-begin-with-our-hearts/ |access-date=5 December 2023 |work=MindaNews |date=3 December 2023 |archive-date=December 5, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231205132023/https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2023/12/cardinal-quevedo-massacre-during-sunday-mass-is-a-crime-that-cries-out-to-heaven-but-let-peace-begin-with-our-hearts/ |url-status=live }} As a state university, the military and police were not permitted to deploy personnel within the university campus prior to the incident.{{cite news |last1=Cabalza |first1=Dexter |title=AFP, PNP deny intel failure in Marawi bomb attack |url=https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1871178/afp-pnp-deny-intel-failure-in-bomb-attack |access-date=6 December 2023 |newspaper=Philippine Daily Inquirer |date=6 December 2023 |language=en |archive-date=December 6, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231206111232/https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1871178/afp-pnp-deny-intel-failure-in-bomb-attack |url-status=live }} Unlike typical universities, MSU's campus which spans seven barangays is unfenced.{{Cite web |url=https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1872154/police-saying-that-2-suspects-in-marawi-blast-are-residents-of-msu |title=BARMM police says 2 suspects in Marawi blast are MSU 'residents' |date=December 7, 2023 |access-date=December 7, 2023 |archive-date=December 7, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231207201200/https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1872154/police-saying-that-2-suspects-in-marawi-blast-are-residents-of-msu |url-status=live }}

File:Marawi MSU bombing aftermath.jpg

On December 3, 2023 at around 7:30 a.m., during a Mass being conducted at the Dimaporo Gymnasium of Mindanao State University in Marawi, an improvised explosive device detonated{{cite news |title=4 dead, several hurt in bombing in Mindanao State University gym in Marawi |url=https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/regions/890231/3-dead-7-hurt-in-bombing-in-mindanao-state-university-gym-in-marawi/story/ |access-date=3 December 2023 |work=GMA News |date=3 December 2023 |language=en |archive-date=December 4, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231204002517/https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/regions/890231/3-dead-7-hurt-in-bombing-in-mindanao-state-university-gym-in-marawi/story/ |url-status=live }} after the Kyrie portion.{{cite news |last1=Datu |first1=Dennis |title='Bakit ginawa ito sa nagdarasal?': Anger, guilt torment Marawi bombing survivor |trans-title='Why did they did it to those who are only praying?': Anger, guilt torment Marawi bombing survivor |url=https://news.abs-cbn.com/video/news/12/06/23/bakit-ginawa-ito-sa-nagdarasal-anger-guilt-torment-marawi-bombing-survivor |access-date=6 December 2023 |work=ABS-CBN News |date=6 December 2023 |language=fil, en |archive-date=December 6, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231206063006/https://news.abs-cbn.com/video/news/12/06/23/bakit-ginawa-ito-sa-nagdarasal-anger-guilt-torment-marawi-bombing-survivor |url-status=live }} There were around 72 attendees of the Mass,{{cite news |last1=Timonera |first1=Bobby |title=MSU-Marawi bombing fatalities to be included in Vatican's catalogue of 'New Martyrs' |url=https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2023/12/msu-marawi-bombing-fatalities-to-be-included-in-vaticans-catalogue-of-new-martyrs/ |access-date=11 December 2023 |work=MindaNews |date=11 December 2023 |archive-date=December 12, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231212004224/https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2023/12/msu-marawi-bombing-fatalities-to-be-included-in-vaticans-catalogue-of-new-martyrs/ |url-status=live }} which was presided by Franciscan priest Benigno Flores Jr., who survived the incident.

The explosion killed four people{{cite news |title=Fact Check: Only 4, not 11, killed in Marawi blast |url=https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2023/12/fact-check-only-4-not-11-killed-in-marawi-blast/ |access-date=4 December 2023 |work=MindaNews |date=4 December 2023 |archive-date=December 4, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231204074736/https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2023/12/fact-check-only-4-not-11-killed-in-marawi-blast/ |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last1=Diaz |first1=Cris |last2=Madale |first2=Asangan |title=Terror group's 'revenge' eyed in MSU blast as death toll up |url=https://www.manilatimes.net/2023/12/03/news/terror-groups-revenge-eyed-in-msu-blast-as-death-toll-up/1922591 |access-date=4 December 2023 |work=The Manila Times |date=3 December 2023 |language=en |archive-date=December 4, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231204001047/https://www.manilatimes.net/2023/12/03/news/terror-groups-revenge-eyed-in-msu-blast-as-death-toll-up/1922591 |url-status=live }} and injured at least 50 others.{{efn|name=injuries}} Of the fatalities, two were college professors and two were students. Police said that the bombing was not a suicide attack.{{cite news |last1=Recuenco |first1=Aaron |title=PNP rules out suicide bombing in Marawi City blast |url=https://mb.com.ph/2023/12/4/pnp-rules-out-suicide-bombing-in-marawi-city-blast |access-date=4 December 2023 |work=Manila Bulletin |date=4 December 2023 |archive-date=December 4, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231204112433/https://mb.com.ph/2023/12/4/pnp-rules-out-suicide-bombing-in-marawi-city-blast |url-status=live }} An eyewitness reportedly saw a man placing a bag believed to contain the bomb,{{cite news |last1=G |first1=Herbie |title=Eyewitness says MSU gym bomber placed bag under plastic chair |url=https://www.rappler.com/nation/mindanao/eyewitness-msu-gym-bomber-placed-bag-under-chair-marawi-december-5-2023/ |access-date=6 December 2023 |work=Rappler |date=6 December 2023 |archive-date=December 6, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231206051825/https://www.rappler.com/nation/mindanao/eyewitness-msu-gym-bomber-placed-bag-under-chair-marawi-december-5-2023/ |url-status=live }} while CCTV footage showed the two suspected bombers arriving at the gymnasium on a motorcycle at around 7:03 a.m. and stood there for eight minutes.{{cite news |last1=Caparas |first1=Jeff |last2=Datu |first2=Dennis |title=PNP: Two suspects in MSU blast are members of Maute group |url=https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/12/06/23/pnp-two-suspects-in-msu-blast-are-maute-members |access-date=6 December 2023 |work=ABS-CBN |date=6 December 2023 |archive-date=December 6, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231206101526/https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/12/06/23/pnp-two-suspects-in-msu-blast-are-maute-members |url-status=live }} The explosion produced a crater in the gymnasium floor. ABS-CBN reported that the IED, which was composed of a 60mm mortar round and an RPG high-explosive anti-personnel MEUG, had been concealed in a black tote bag.{{cite news |last1=Caparas |first1=Jeff |title=IED used in MSU blast concealed in a black bag: source |url=https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/12/05/23/ied-used-in-msu-blast-placed-in-black-bag-source |access-date=5 December 2023 |work=ABS-CBN |date=5 December 2023 |archive-date=December 5, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231205090716/https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/12/05/23/ied-used-in-msu-blast-placed-in-black-bag-source |url-status=live }}

Authorities said that a bomb threat was circulated the night before the incident. The sender threatened to bomb Marawi but did not specify their target.{{cite AV media|people=|date=4 December 2023|title=BARMM gov't says bomb threat messages circulated night before Marawi blast|trans-title=|type=TV broadcast|language=en, fil|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fZ-AFMvCW-4%20|access-date=|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231207201210/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fZ-AFMvCW-4%20|archive-date=December 7, 2023|format=|time=|location=|work=The World Tonight|publisher=ANC|id=|via=YouTube|isbn=|oclc=|quote=|url-status=live}}

The incident has been compared with the 2019 Jolo Cathedral bombings.{{cite news |last1=Rivas |first1=Ralf |title=Security officials probing possible links between Marawi blast, 2019 Jolo Cathedral bombing |url=https://www.rappler.com/nation/mindanao/security-officials-probing-possible-links-marawi-blast-2023-jolo-cathedral-bombing-2019/ |access-date=4 December 2023 |work=Rappler |date=3 December 2023 |archive-date=December 4, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231204080924/https://www.rappler.com/nation/mindanao/security-officials-probing-possible-links-marawi-blast-2023-jolo-cathedral-bombing-2019/ |url-status=live }}

On the same day of the bombing, Islamic State (IS) claimed responsibility.{{Cite news |last1=Lema |first1=Karen |last2=Morales |first2=Neil Jerome |date=3 December 2023 |title=Islamic State claims responsibility for deadly Philippine bombing |language=en |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/three-dead-southern-philippines-university-gym-blast-media-2023-12-03/ |access-date=3 December 2023 |archive-date=December 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231203201331/https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/three-dead-southern-philippines-university-gym-blast-media-2023-12-03/ |url-status=live }} The claim of the international group is being validated.{{cite news |last1=Pareño |first1=Roel |last2=Punongbayan |first2=Michael |title=AFP validating IS hand in MSU bomb attack |url=https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2023/12/05/2316484/afp-validating-hand-msu-bomb-attack |access-date=5 December 2023 |work=The Philippine Star |date=5 December 2023 |archive-date=December 4, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231204185436/https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2023/12/05/2316484/afp-validating-hand-msu-bomb-attack |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last1=Sadongdong |first1=Martin |title=AFP chief says not discounting Islamic State, Hamas link to Marawi blast |url=https://mb.com.ph/2023/12/3/afp-chief-says-not-discounting-islamic-state-hamas-link-to-marawi-blast |access-date=4 December 2023 |work=Manila Bulletin |date=4 December 2023 |language=en |archive-date=December 4, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231204065418/https://mb.com.ph/2023/12/3/afp-chief-says-not-discounting-islamic-state-hamas-link-to-marawi-blast |url-status=live }} Other groups suspected are IS-affiliate Maute Group and the Abu Sayyaf.{{cite AV media |people= |date= |title=PNP on red alert in Mindanao, heightened alert in Metro Manila after Marawi blast |trans-title= |type=TV broadcast |language=en, fil |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kv1H_NzEJYA |access-date= |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231204235010/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kv1H_NzEJYA |archive-date=December 4, 2023 |format= |time= |location= |work=CNN Philippines |via=YouTube |url-status=live }}

It was speculated that the bombing was a retaliation against the Philippine government. State forces have killed 21 members of the Dawlah Islamiyah group since June 2023. Two days before the bombing, 11 members of the Dawlah Islamiya were killed in clashes with the Philippine Army in Datu Hoffer Ampatuan, Maguindanao del Sur, while Abu Sayyaf leader and Dawlah Islamiyah central committee member Mudzrimar Sawadjaan was killed in a separate clash with government forces in Basilan a day before the attack.{{cite news |last1=Unson |first1=John |title=21 Dawlah men neutralized before Marawi City campus bombing |url=https://www.philstar.com/nation/2023/12/04/2316401/21-dawlah-men-neutralized-marawi-city-campus-bombing |access-date=4 December 2023 |work=The Philippine Star |date=4 December 2023 |archive-date=December 4, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231204094054/https://www.philstar.com/nation/2023/12/04/2316401/21-dawlah-men-neutralized-marawi-city-campus-bombing |url-status=live }}

Authorities also reached out to Muslim leaders and security analysts for the bombings link to the Gaza war. The consensus is that the incident is unrelated but the government is not discounting this angle.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) identified two "persons of interest" in relation to the bombing. Both reside in Lanao del Sur.{{cite news |last1=Argosino |first1=Faith |title=Police eye 2 'persons of interest' in Mindanao State University bombing |url=https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1870071/police-eye-2-persons-of-interest-in-mindanao-state-university-bombing |access-date=4 December 2023 |newspaper=Philippine Daily Inquirer |date=4 December 2023 |language=en |archive-date=December 4, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231204075140/https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1870071/police-eye-2-persons-of-interest-in-mindanao-state-university-bombing |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last1=Cabrera |first1=Ferdinandh |title=PNP reveals 'person of interest' in MSU-Marawi bombing |url=https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2023/12/pnp-reveals-person-of-interest-in-msu-marawi-bombing/ |access-date=4 December 2023 |work=MindaNews |date=4 December 2023 |archive-date=December 4, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231204075536/https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2023/12/pnp-reveals-person-of-interest-in-msu-marawi-bombing/ |url-status=live }} They are Arseni Lumen Membisa and Wahab Sandigan Macabayao from the Dawlah Islamiyah group and are also members of the Maute Group.{{cite news |last1=Unson |first1=John |title=Local sectors helping locate Marawi City bombers |url=https://www.philstar.com/nation/2023/12/05/2316677/local-sectors-helping-locate-marawi-city-bombers/ |access-date=5 December 2023 |work=The Philippine Star |date=5 December 2023 |archive-date=December 6, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231206120009/https://www.philstar.com/nation/2023/12/05/2316677/local-sectors-helping-locate-marawi-city-bombers |url-status=live }}{{cite news |title=PNP releases photos of Marawi 'bombers' |url=https://www.manilatimes.net/2023/12/06/news/pnp-releases-photos-of-marawi-bombers/1923062 |access-date=6 December 2023 |work=The Manila Times |date=6 December 2023 |language=en |archive-date=December 7, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231207202233/https://www.manilatimes.net/2023/12/07/news/national/2-suspects-in-marawi-city-blast-identified/1923062 |url-status=live }} Membisa, also known as "Lapitos", was identified as the one who drove to motorcycle used to transport the bomb, while another suspected Maute member and explosives expert, Kadapi Mimbesa also known as "Engineer", was believed to have planted the bomb inside the gymnasium after he was identified by an attendee of the mass. Mimbesa was subsequently identified by university faculty and officials as having enrolled twice at the school, each time failing to finish his studies.{{cite news |last1=Dava |first1=Bianca |title=Marawi bombing suspect a former MSU student: university official |url=https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/12/07/23/marawi-blast-suspect-an-ex-msu-student-university-official |access-date=7 December 2023 |work=ABS-CBN |date=7 December 2023 |language=en |archive-date=December 7, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231207201240/https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/12/07/23/marawi-blast-suspect-an-ex-msu-student-university-official |url-status=live }} Both Membisa and Mimbesa were also believed to have been involved in previous bombings in Lanao del Norte and Lanao del Sur and were also facing murder charges.{{cite news |last1=Unson |first1=John Felix |title=2 Marawi blast suspects wanted for previous bombings — PNP |url=https://www.bworldonline.com/the-nation/2023/12/07/562399/2-marawi-blast-suspects-wanted-for-previous-bombings-pnp/ |access-date=7 December 2023 |work=Business World |date=7 December 2023 |language=en |archive-date=December 7, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231207202236/https://www.bworldonline.com/the-nation/2023/12/07/562399/2-marawi-blast-suspects-wanted-for-previous-bombings-pnp/ |url-status=live }} Two more people were tagged as persons of interest, while police said that there were two lookouts working for the attackers.{{cite news |title=Philippines chase four suspects in Catholic mass bombing |url=https://www.dailyexpress.com.my/news/224778/philippines-chase-four-suspects-in-catholic-mass-bombing/ |access-date=5 December 2023 |work=Daily Express |agency=Agence France-Presse |publisher=Sabah Publishing House |date=5 December 2023 |archive-date=December 5, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231205150908/https://www.dailyexpress.com.my/news/224778/philippines-chase-four-suspects-in-catholic-mass-bombing/ |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last1=Recuenco |first1=Aaron |title=Pursuit operations intensified vs 2 persons of interest, 2 lookouts in Marawi blast |url=https://mb.com.ph/2023/12/5/pursuit-operations-intensified-vs-2-persons-of-interest-2-lookouts-in-marawi-blast |access-date=6 December 2023 |work=Manila Bulletin |date=5 December 2023 |language=en |archive-date=December 5, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231205153808/https://mb.com.ph/2023/12/5/pursuit-operations-intensified-vs-2-persons-of-interest-2-lookouts-in-marawi-blast |url-status=live }}

On December 6, Jafar Gamo Sultan, one of the suspects, was arrested in Marawi. He was allegedly the companion of the person who placed the bomb identified by eyewitness as "Omar".{{cite news |last1=Mendoza |first1=John Eric |title=One of suspects in MSU bombing arrested in Marawi City — AFP |url=https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1872441/3-suspect-in-msu-bombing-arrested |access-date=8 December 2023 |newspaper=Philippine Daily Inquirer |date=8 December 2023 |language=en |archive-date=December 8, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231208041930/https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1872441/3-suspect-in-msu-bombing-arrested |url-status=live }} On December 9, two more suspects only referred to as "Maausor" and "Monatanda/Titing" were arrested in Lumbayanague, where Mimbesa was said to have fled. The two are also alleged members of the Dawlah Islamiyah group.{{cite news |last1=Rita |first1=Joviland |title=PNP: 2 more suspects linked to MSU bombing arrested |url=https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/891340/pnp-2-more-suspects-linked-to-msu-bombing-arrested/story/ |access-date=17 December 2023 |work=GMA News Online |date=14 December 2023 |language=en |archive-date=December 17, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231217065855/https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/891340/pnp-2-more-suspects-linked-to-msu-bombing-arrested/story/ |url-status=live }}

On January 26, 2024, Omar was killed along with eight other Dawlah Islamiyah members in a firefight with the Philippine Army in the highlands of Piagapo, Lanao del Sur. Authorities said Membisa and another suspect in the bombing known as "Khatab" were also seen in the fighting but were not identified as being among the dead.{{cite news |title=9 suspected Dawlah Islamiyah-Maute group members killed in Lanao del Sur clash |url=https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/01/27/24/9-suspected-dawlah-islamiyah-maute-group-members-killed-in-lanao-del-sur |access-date=27 January 2024 |work=ABS-CBN |date=27 January 2024 |language=en |archive-date=January 27, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240127051847/https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/01/27/24/9-suspected-dawlah-islamiyah-maute-group-members-killed-in-lanao-del-sur |url-status=live }} The AFP later confirmed on February 12 that Membisa had been killed the firefight, citing information from a surrendered militant.{{cite news |title=MSU blast ‘mastermind’ killed in Lanao del Sur ops: AFP |url=https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/2024/2/12/msu-blast-mastermind-killed-in-lanao-del-sur-ops-afp-1316 |access-date=12 February 2024 |work=ABS-CBN |date=12 February 2024 |language=en |archive-date=February 12, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240212081329/https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/2024/2/12/msu-blast-mastermind-killed-in-lanao-del-sur-ops-afp-1316 |url-status=live }}

Following the bombing, university president Basari Mapupuno released a memorandum stating that classes and extracurricular activities in the school were suspended from December 4 until further notice;{{cite web|url=https://www.facebook.com/MSUMarawi/posts/pfbid02VM6VGDLKApC4oE1WMypCTCjgswF1esGdTkj5bom1YrBcbimwqjsduzB9HDsK4ezvl|title=OFFICIAL STATEMENT: December 3 Incident|website=Facebook|date=3 December 2023|accessdate=4 December 2023|archive-date=December 4, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231204024111/https://www.facebook.com/MSUMarawi/posts/pfbid02VM6VGDLKApC4oE1WMypCTCjgswF1esGdTkj5bom1YrBcbimwqjsduzB9HDsK4ezvl|url-status=live}} as a result, students, faculty, and personnel were repatriated to their home provinces.{{cite web|url=https://www.facebook.com/cdrrmoiligancity/videos/1066353994789939/|title=Ensuring Safe Journeys: The repatriation of MSU Main students commences following the recent bombing incident at Dimaporo Gymnasium, MSU Marawi City.|website=Facebook|date=3 December 2023|accessdate=4 December 2023|archive-date=December 4, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231204024759/https://www.facebook.com/cdrrmoiligancity/videos/1066353994789939/|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://www.facebook.com/cdrrmoiligancity/posts/pfbid02UZE73rhsQwbE35mvVE4D98PF2uRf641tDzeGd7zDcJ7vsJVuEgh2tGccad9f4MU3l|title=UPDATE: Nakuha na ang ubang mga studyante sa ilang LGU/munisipyo/probinsya.|website=Facebook|date=3 December 2023|accessdate=4 December 2023|archive-date=December 4, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231204024917/https://www.facebook.com/cdrrmoiligancity/posts/pfbid02UZE73rhsQwbE35mvVE4D98PF2uRf641tDzeGd7zDcJ7vsJVuEgh2tGccad9f4MU3l|url-status=live}} Around 600 students fled.{{cite news |last1=Gallardo |first1=Froilan |title=Over 600 MSU students fled Marawi since Sunday's bomb attack |url=https://www.rappler.com/nation/mindanao/hundreds-msu-students-continue-exodus-marawi-bomb-attack-december-2023/ |access-date=8 December 2023 |work=Rappler |date=7 December 2023 |archive-date=December 8, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231208041932/https://www.rappler.com/nation/mindanao/hundreds-msu-students-continue-exodus-marawi-bomb-attack-december-2023/ |url-status=live }} Psychological interventions were also extended to students. The university admitted there were security lapses in the campus but said they were implementing measures to maintain safety.{{cite news |title=Some students, residents still terrified after MSU blast |url=https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/regions/890488/some-students-residents-still-terrified-after-msu-blast/story/?just_in |access-date=5 December 2023 |work=GMA |date=5 December 2023 |archive-date=December 7, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231207201240/https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/regions/890488/some-students-residents-still-terrified-after-msu-blast/story/?just_in |url-status=live }} Students and alumni gathered at the Dimaporo gymnasium on December 5 to light candles for the victims. The following day, police personnel were deployed in the campus.{{cite news |last1=Unson |first1=John |title=More cops deployed in Marawi City MSU campus |url=https://www.philstar.com/nation/2023/12/06/2316936/more-cops-deployed-marawi-city-msu-campus |access-date=6 December 2023 |work=The Philippine Star |date=6 December 2023 |archive-date=December 7, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231207201252/https://www.philstar.com/nation/2023/12/06/2316936/more-cops-deployed-marawi-city-msu-campus |url-status=live }}

As per a December 7 memorandum,{{cite news |last1=Luczon |first1=Nef |title=MSU Marawi to resume classes with heightened security |url=https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1215053 |access-date=17 December 2023 |work=Philippine News Agency |date=7 December 2023 |archive-date=December 17, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231217065426/https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1215053 |url-status=live }} in-person classes would resume on December 11,{{cite news |last1=Patumbon |first1=Rojean Grace G. |title=MSU-Marawi resumes classes on December 11 |url=https://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/msu-marawi-resumes-classes-on-december-11 |access-date=9 December 2023 |work=SunStar Publishing Inc. |publisher=SunStar |date=9 December 2023 |language=en |archive-date=December 9, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231209143812/https://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/msu-marawi-resumes-classes-on-december-11 |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last1=Umel |first1=Richel |title=Bombing victims honored as MSU resumes classes |url=https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1873932/bombing-victims-honored-as-msu-resumes-classes |access-date=11 December 2023 |newspaper=Philippine Daily Inquirer |date=12 December 2023 |language=en |archive-date=December 11, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231211204741/https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1873932/bombing-victims-honored-as-msu-resumes-classes |url-status=live }} which saw objection from the school's student council who were skeptical of the administration's assurance to guarantee campus safety.{{cite news |last1=Chi |first1=Cristina |title='Gain our trust:' Students urge MSU to suspend in-person classes amid safety concerns |url=https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2023/12/11/2318109/gain-our-trust-students-urge-msu-suspend-person-classes-amid-safety-concerns |access-date=11 December 2023 |work=The Philippine Star |date=11 December 2023 |archive-date=December 12, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231212004216/https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2023/12/11/2318109/gain-our-trust-students-urge-msu-suspend-person-classes-amid-safety-concerns |url-status=live }} Hundred of students also launched a rally against the resumption of classes. The following day, examinations as well as the deadline for other requirements were postponed to January 2024.{{cite news |title=MSU Marawi postpones final exams to January 2024 |url=https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2023/12/msu-marawi-postpones-final-exams-to-january-2024/ |access-date=16 December 2023 |work=MindaNews |date=14 December 2023 |archive-date=December 16, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231216115138/https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2023/12/msu-marawi-postpones-final-exams-to-january-2024/ |url-status=live }}

President Bongbong Marcos initially blamed foreign terrorists. Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro told a news conference there was a strong indication of a foreign element in the bombing.

The House of Representatives on December 6 adopted Resolution 1504 condemning the bombing as a terrorist attack.{{cite news |last1=Panti |first1=Llanesca |title=House adopts resolution condemning Marawi bombing |url=https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/890609/house-adopts-resolution-condemning-marawi-bombing/story/ |access-date=6 December 2023 |work=GMA News |date=6 December 2023 |language=en |archive-date=December 7, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231207201650/https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/890609/house-adopts-resolution-condemning-marawi-bombing/story/ |url-status=live }}{{cite news |title=House condemns MSU bombing in a resolution |url=https://www.congress.gov.ph/press/details.php?pressid=12808 |access-date=6 December 2023 |work=Congress.gov.ph |agency=Press and Public Affairs Bureau |publisher=House of Representatives |archive-date=December 7, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231207201743/https://www.congress.gov.ph/press/details.php?pressid=12808 |url-status=live }}

Senator Ronald dela Rosa, on the prospect of declaring a "state of lawlessness" in Marawi, said that such declaration needs further study.{{cite news |last1=Abarca |first1=Charie |title=Declaring state of lawlessness in Marawi needs more study – dela Rosa |url=https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1870440/bato-dela-rosa-on-declaration-of-state-of-lawlessness-in-marawi |access-date=4 December 2023 |newspaper=Philippine Daily Inquirer |date=4 December 2023 |language=en |archive-date=December 4, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231204234240/https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1870440/bato-dela-rosa-on-declaration-of-state-of-lawlessness-in-marawi |url-status=live }} House member for Lanao del Sur's 1st district, Zia Adiong advised that declaring martial law in the city would be counter-productive and cause "unnecessary panic".{{cite news |last1=Panti |first1=Llanesca |title=Lanao del Sur solon: No need for martial law in Marawi |url=https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/890352/lanao-del-sur-solon-no-need-for-martial-law-in-marawi/story/ |access-date=4 December 2023 |work=GMA News |date=4 December 2023 |language=en |archive-date=December 4, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231204234011/https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/890352/lanao-del-sur-solon-no-need-for-martial-law-in-marawi/story/ |url-status=live }} He also called on the government to reevaluate the use of funds in intelligence gathering.{{cite news |title=Gov't should revisit intel fund use in wake of Marawi blast, says lawmaker |url=https://news.abs-cbn.com/video/news/12/05/23/govt-should-revisit-intel-fund-use-in-wake-of-marawi-blast-adiong |access-date=5 December 2023 |work=ABS-CBN News |date=5 December 2023 |archive-date=December 5, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231205050258/https://news.abs-cbn.com/video/news/12/05/23/govt-should-revisit-intel-fund-use-in-wake-of-marawi-blast-adiong |url-status=live }} The Armed Forces of the Philippines said that no martial law is needed, insisting that it is on top of the situation.{{cite news |title=AFP: No need to put Marawi City under martial law |url=https://www.cnnphilippines.com/news/2023/12/5/afp-marawi-city-martial-law.html |access-date=5 December 2023 |work=CNN Philippines |date=5 December 2023 |language=en |archive-date=December 5, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231205131338/http://www.cnnphilippines.com/news/2023/12/5/afp-marawi-city-martial-law.html |url-status=dead }}

The Philippine Senate held a closed-door meeting with security officials on December 6 regarding the bombing.{{cite news |last1=Ager |first1=Maila |title=PH's top security execs brief senators on Marawi bombing |url=https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1871603/phs-top-security-execs-brief-senators-on-marawi-bombing |access-date=6 December 2023 |newspaper=Philippine Daily Inquirer |date=6 December 2023 |language=en |archive-date=December 6, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231206091437/https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1871603/phs-top-security-execs-brief-senators-on-marawi-bombing |url-status=live }} Following the meeting, Senate President Migz Zubiri urged local officials to look into alleged radicalization efforts since the 2017 Marawi siege.{{cite news |last1=Locus |first1=Sundy |title=Zubiri: Radicalization stepped up after Marawi Siege |url=https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/890582/zubiri-radicalization-stepped-up-after-marawi-siege/story/ |access-date=6 December 2023 |work=GMA News |date=6 December 2023 |language=en |archive-date=December 7, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231207202342/https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/890582/zubiri-radicalization-stepped-up-after-marawi-siege/story/ |url-status=live }}

The PNP and the AFP launched a joint operation with the assistance of other groups such as the Moro National Liberation Front and Moro Islamic Liberation Front to capture the suspects linked to the bombing. The PNP placed Mindanao under red alert, while Metro Manila was placed in heightened alert. The Philippine Coast Guard also imposed enhanced security and intelligence-gathering procedures following the bombing.{{cite news |last1=Gomez |first1=Jim |title=Philippine president blames foreign militants for a bombing that killed 4 Christian worshippers |url=https://apnews.com/article/marawi-city-southern-philippines-marawi-state-university-explosion-f01092608d55b8a9d077f19149f16d0c |access-date=5 December 2023 |work=Associated Press |date=3 December 2023 |language=en |archive-date=December 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231203225726/https://apnews.com/article/marawi-city-southern-philippines-marawi-state-university-explosion-f01092608d55b8a9d077f19149f16d0c |url-status=live }}

Both the PNP and AFP denied that there was a failure of intelligence, stating that they had warned stakeholders in Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur and Lanao del Norte of possible retaliatory attacks prior to the university bombing. Although on December 7, the AFP admitted there might be a failure "in a way". It added that whether its personnel is to be held accountable is yet to be determined.{{cite news |last1=Ramos-Araneta |first1=Macon |last2=Lopez |first2=Vince |last3=Rada |first3=Julito |title=AFP admits intel failure 'in a way' in Marawi blast |url=https://www.manilastandard.net/news/top-stories/314397114/afp-admits-intel-failure-in-a-way-in-marawi-blast.html |access-date=8 December 2023 |work=Manila Standard |date=7 December 2023 |archive-date=December 8, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231208041932/https://www.manilastandard.net/news/top-stories/314397114/afp-admits-intel-failure-in-a-way-in-marawi-blast.html |url-status=live }}

The PNP raised security nationwide for the Christmas season. Leaves filed for after December 15 were suspended to ensure sufficient personnel.{{cite news |last1=Caliwan |first1=Christopher Lloyd |title=PNP to raise full alert for holiday season Dec. 15 |url=https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1214896 |access-date=8 December 2023 |date=5 December 2023 |archive-date=December 8, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231208041947/https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1214896 |url-status=live }}

File:Adiong MSU bombing.jpg inspects the bombing site]]

The Bangsamoro regional government condemned the incident's perpetrators as "atrocious and cowardly".{{cite news |first1= |title=Mindanao State University gym bombing a 'cowardly act' – BARMM |url=https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/890259/mindanao-state-university-gym-bombing-a-cowardly-act-barmm/story/?_gl=1*1mbd5s6*_ga*YzcyWllBOHp0VUh5SElURDgzYXM3elVNZXJIVVEzbEF6YmVOWFZjNi12WXgwd2NUb0Npb0hSLU1hc3VTdnFZUQ..*_ga_J329KM2X1X*MTcwMTY0Njk1Mi4xLjEuMTcwMTY0Njk1Mi4wLjAuMA.. |access-date=3 December 2023 |work=GMA News Online |date=3 December 2023 |language=en |archive-date=December 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231203234929/https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/890259/mindanao-state-university-gym-bombing-a-cowardly-act-barmm/story/?_gl=1*1mbd5s6*_ga*YzcyWllBOHp0VUh5SElURDgzYXM3elVNZXJIVVEzbEF6YmVOWFZjNi12WXgwd2NUb0Npb0hSLU1hc3VTdnFZUQ..*_ga_J329KM2X1X*MTcwMTY0Njk1Mi4xLjEuMTcwMTY0Njk1Mi4wLjAuMA.. |url-status=live }} Murad Ebrahim, the Chief Minister of Bangsamoro, pledged to shoulder the victims' medical treatment. Lanao del Sur governor Mamintal Adiong Jr. said his office had also shouldered financial assistance for the injured and pledged further assistance to those killed in the attack. Nearly a thousand students returned to their respective provinces following the blast,{{cite news |last1=Datu |first1=Dennis |title=MSU: We are devasted but not broken |url=https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/12/06/23/msu-we-are-devasted-but-not-broken |access-date=6 December 2023 |work=ABS-CBN |date=6 December 2023 |archive-date=December 6, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231206033319/https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/12/06/23/msu-we-are-devasted-but-not-broken |url-status=live }} with various local government units arranging bus trips for them.{{cite news |last1=G |first1=Herbie |title=Deadly bombing at Catholic Mass sparks exodus of MSU students from Marawi |url=https://www.rappler.com/nation/mindanao/deadly-bombing-catholic-mass-sparks-exodus-msu-students-marawi-december-4-2023/ |access-date=4 December 2023 |work=Rappler |date=4 December 2023 |archive-date=December 4, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231204074145/https://www.rappler.com/nation/mindanao/deadly-bombing-catholic-mass-sparks-exodus-msu-students-marawi-december-4-2023/ |url-status=live }}

The Commission on Higher Education urged all higher education institutions in the country to review their safety and security measures.{{cite news |last1=Chi |first1=Cristina |title=CHED urges campuses to tighten security after Marawi bombing |url=https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2023/12/04/2316404/ched-urges-campuses-tighten-security-after-marawi-bombing |access-date=4 December 2023 |work=The Philippine Star |date=4 December 2023 |archive-date=December 5, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231205005216/https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2023/12/04/2316404/ched-urges-campuses-tighten-security-after-marawi-bombing |url-status=live }} The National Security Council pointed to the lack of security within the MSU campus as a factor to the bombing, with Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya suggesting that MSU end its special arrangement that allows it to provide its own security and "coordinate" closely with the police and military.{{cite news |title=Marawi blast: NSC points to lapse of security in MSU |url=https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/12/05/23/marawi-blast-nsc-points-to-lapse-of-security-in-msu |access-date=5 December 2023 |work=ABS-CBN News |date=5 December 2023 |archive-date=December 5, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231205091936/http://news.abs-cbn.com/news/12/05/23/marawi-blast-nsc-points-to-lapse-of-security-in-msu |url-status=live }}

The Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) condemned the bombing which it noted coincided with the first Sunday of Advent.{{cite news |last1=Chi |first1=Cristina |title=Imams, Catholic bishops condemn deadly Sunday mass bombing |url=https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2023/12/04/2316381/imams-catholic-bishops-condemn-deadly-sunday-mass-bombing |access-date=4 December 2023 |work=The Philippine Star |date=4 December 2023 |archive-date=December 4, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231204080212/https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2023/12/04/2316381/imams-catholic-bishops-condemn-deadly-sunday-mass-bombing |url-status=live }} Archbishop emeritus of Cotabato Cardinal Orlando Quevedo called the bombing a "massacre" and a "terrorist attack" but urged for peace. The President of the CBCP, Pablo Virgilio David announced a day of mourning on December 6 for the victims of the bombing.{{cite news |title=Day of Mourning on December 6 for the deceased victims of the Philippines Bombing |url=https://www.rvasia.org/church-asia/day-mourning-december-6-deceased-victims-philippines-bombing |access-date=6 December 2023 |work=Radio Veritas Asia News |date=6 December 2023 |language=en |archive-date=December 7, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231207201745/https://www.rvasia.org/church-asia/day-mourning-december-6-deceased-victims-philippines-bombing |url-status=live }} Father Sebastiano D'Ambra, an Italian missionary priest who has been in the Philippines for decades and is heavily involved in Catholic-Muslim dialogue, through the Silsilah Dialogue Movement, lamented the fact that the attack had taken place on the first day of the Mindanao Week of Peace, saying: "What was meant to be a week full of positive peace-building moments has become a time of terror". He said it was necessary not to jump to conclusions about the motive of the attack, but expressed "no doubt that Christians were the target".{{Cite web |last=ACN |date=2023-12-05 |title=Philippines: Deadly attack in Marawi university sparks commotion and fear among local Catholic minority |url=https://acninternational.org/philippines-deadly-attack-in-marawi-university-sparks-commotion-and-fear-among-local-catholic-minority/ |access-date=2024-04-26 |website=ACN International |language=en-US |archive-date=April 26, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240426110741/https://acninternational.org/philippines-deadly-attack-in-marawi-university-sparks-commotion-and-fear-among-local-catholic-minority/ |url-status=live }}

Pope Francis mentioned the attack during the weekly Angelus prayer, in Rome, saying: "I wish to assure my prayer for the victims of the attack that occurred this morning in the Philippines, where a bomb exploded during Mass. I am close to the families and the people of Mindanao, who have already suffered so much."

The United Imams of the Philippines said the incident was a violation of both "human and Islamic norms".

Muslim and Christian leaders issued a joint-statement called "Religions are for Peace" condemning the Marawi bombing as a deplorable act not justifiable under any religion and that they pledge to be "pro-active against similar terrorist acts" after an interfaith meeting from January 16 to 17, 2024.{{Cite web |url=https://interaksyon.philstar.com/politics-issues/2024/01/19/268867/muslim-christian-leaders-condemn-violence-under-the-guise-of-religion/ |title=Archived copy |access-date=January 19, 2024 |archive-date=January 19, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240119093841/https://interaksyon.philstar.com/politics-issues/2024/01/19/268867/muslim-christian-leaders-condemn-violence-under-the-guise-of-religion/ |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |url=https://journal.com.ph/ulama-bishop-dialogue-meeting-and-joint-statement-to-address-mindanao-state-university-marawi-bombing-incident/ |title=Archived copy |access-date=January 19, 2024 |archive-date=January 19, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240119094001/https://journal.com.ph/ulama-bishop-dialogue-meeting-and-joint-statement-to-address-mindanao-state-university-marawi-bombing-incident/ |url-status=live }}

Representatives from Australia, Canada, France, Israel, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, and the United States condemned the bombing.{{cite news |title=Israel joins int'l community in condemning Marawi attack |url=https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/890294/israel-joins-int-l-community-in-condemning-marawi-attack/story/ |access-date=4 December 2023 |work=GMA News |date=4 December 2023 |language=en |archive-date=December 7, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231207201750/https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/890294/israel-joins-int-l-community-in-condemning-marawi-attack/story/ |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last1=Lee-Brago |first1=Pia |title=International Community Condemns Marawi Bombing |url=https://www.onenews.ph/articles/international-community-condemns-marawi-bombing |access-date=4 December 2023 |work=OneNews |date=4 December 2023 |language=en |archive-date=December 7, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231207201654/https://www.onenews.ph/articles/international-community-condemns-marawi-bombing |url-status=live }}{{cite news |title=South Korea condoles with victims of Marawi bombing |url=https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/12/04/23/south-korea-condoles-with-victims-of-marawi-bombing |access-date=4 December 2023 |work=ABS-CBN News |date=4 December 2023 |archive-date=December 4, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231204233505/https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/12/04/23/south-korea-condoles-with-victims-of-marawi-bombing |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |url=https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/singapore-condemns-heinous-attack-phillippines-catholic-mass-bombing-3970071 |title=Singapore condemns 'heinous attack' at Catholic mass in the Philippines |access-date=December 7, 2023 |archive-date=December 7, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231207142753/https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/singapore-condemns-heinous-attack-phillippines-catholic-mass-bombing-3970071 |url-status=live }} The European Union ambassador to the Philippines expressed grief over the incident.{{cite news |title=US, EU envoys express grief over MSU bombing |url=https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/890252/us-eu-envoys-express-grief-over-msu-bombing/story/ |access-date=8 December 2023 |work=GMA News |date=3 December 2023 |language=en |archive-date=December 12, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231212004217/https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/890252/us-eu-envoys-express-grief-over-msu-bombing/story/ |url-status=live }} ASEAN called the bombing as a "heinous terrorist attack".{{cite news |title=ASEAN strongly condemns Sunday's 'heinous terrorist attack' in Philippines |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/asean-strongly-condemns-sundays-heinous-terrorist-attack-philippines-2023-12-08/ |access-date=8 December 2023 |work=Reuters |date=8 December 2023 |language=en |archive-date=December 12, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231212004217/https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/asean-strongly-condemns-sundays-heinous-terrorist-attack-philippines-2023-12-08/ |url-status=live }}

Pope Francis released a statement praying for the victims.{{cite news |title=Pope Francis prays for victims of Marawi bombing |url=https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2023/12/04/2316368/pope-francis-prays-victims-marawi-bombing/ |access-date=4 December 2023 |work=The Philippine Star |date=4 December 2023 |archive-date=December 4, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231204012349/https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2023/12/04/2316368/pope-francis-prays-victims-marawi-bombing/ |url-status=live }} The four people who died were included in the Vatican's New Martyrs catalogue which commemorates people who were "killed simply because they are Christians".

Non-government organization Council on Climate Conflict and Action Asia (CCCAA) expressed concern that the incident would be used to sow divisions between Christians and Muslims. Its Early Response Network noted an increased rate of hate speech. Among the content which circulated was a fake quote card posted in Facebook from an account named Fahima Salik tv attributing Bangsamoro Interior Minister Naguib Sinarimbo as saying that "the bombing happened because there is no place for Christians in Marawi". Sinarimbo denounced the misinformation stating that he and his ministry did not issue such a statement.{{cite news |title=Fact Check: Fake hate message vs. Christians spreads after MSU-Marawi blast |url=https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2023/12/fact-check-fake-hate-message-vs-christians-spreads-after-msu-marawi-blast/ |access-date=5 December 2023 |work=MindaNews |date=5 December 2023 |archive-date=December 5, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231205130935/https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2023/12/fact-check-fake-hate-message-vs-christians-spreads-after-msu-marawi-blast/ |url-status=live }}

Police in Davao City dismissed claims that one of the perpetrators was allegedly spotted at the Davao City hall after the bombing as disinformation.{{cite news |last1=Francisquete |first1=David Ezra |title=City urges public not to believe in fake news about Marawi bombing suspect |url=https://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/city-urges-public-not-to-believe-in-fake-news-about-marawi-bombing-suspect |access-date=6 December 2023 |work=SunStar |publisher=SunStar Publishing Inc. |date=6 December 2023 |language=en |archive-date=December 6, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231206074729/https://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/city-urges-public-not-to-believe-in-fake-news-about-marawi-bombing-suspect |url-status=live }}

Controversies about politicians funding the attack spread widely across multiple social media platforms, especially Facebook. Conspiracy theorists blamed anonymous individuals and some eyewitnesses.{{Cite web |last=Stambaugh |first=Heather Chen, Alex |date=2023-12-03 |title=Mindanao, Philippines: ISIS claims deadly blast at Catholic mass in Marawi |url=https://www.cnn.com/2023/12/02/asia/explosion-sunday-mass-gym-philippines-intl-hnk/index.html |access-date=2024-03-31 |website=CNN |language=en |archive-date=December 12, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231212094323/https://www.cnn.com/2023/12/02/asia/explosion-sunday-mass-gym-philippines-intl-hnk/index.html |url-status=live }}

• List of terrorist incidents in 2023
• List of terrorist incidents in the Philippines

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Category:2023 building bombings

Category:Building bombings in the Philippines

Category:December 2023 crimes in Asia

Category:December 2023 in the Philippines

Category:2023 murders in the Philippines

Category:Incidents of anti-Catholic violence

Category:ISIL terrorist incidents in the Philippines

2023 bombing

Category:Mass murder in 2023

Category:Persecution of Christians by ISIL

Category:School bombings in Asia

Category:Terrorist incidents in the Philippines in 2023

Category:University and college killings in Asia

Category:21st-century mass murder in the Philippines

Category:21st century in Lanao del Sur

Category:Crime in Mindanao

Category:Attacks on schools in 2023