Philippine church attack clouds outlook for peace in Mindanao

IS claims responsibility for attack days after regional autonomy vote

Police investigators examine the site after two bombs exploded outside a Roman Catholic cathedral in Jolo, the capital of Sulu province in southern Philippines, on Sunday.

MIKHAIL FLORES, Nikkei staff writer

January 28, 2019 18:08 JST

MANILA -- The fatal bombing of a Catholic church in the Philippines has cast a shadow over prospects for peace in the country's southern islands, just days after the largely Muslim population in the region voted for greater autonomy.

At least 20 people were killed, including five military first responders, and more than 100 were injured after two bombs exploded minutes apart during Sunday mass in the Cathedral of Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Jolo, the capital of Sulu province. The Islamic State group has claimed responsibility, according to the SITE Intelligence Group, which monitors jihadist activities.