The Republic of the Philippines joins the international community in expressing strong disagreement with the violent action that has claimed innocent lives and injured many others in Tel Aviv last Monday.

These acts of violence have no place in any civilized society, and are unacceptable modes of resolving conflicts in a democratic community and among freedom-loving peoples.

The Philippines takes serious notice of events such as this as it hosts today the First Counter-Terrorism Experts’ Conference in Cebu.   We are resolute in exploring  peaceful avenues to address the root causes of terrorism with the commitment and partnership of all countries seeking to eliminate this threat to humankind.

In the meantime, I call on my fellow Filipinos in Israel to maintain their vigilance for their own welfare as I assure them that our Government is ready to provide the necessary assistance and support pursuant to its mandate under Philippine law.  END