A group of students at Mindanao State University (MSU) in Marawi City has opposed the resumption of classes on Monday, December 11, 2023, a week after the bombing at the campus gymnasium that killed four people and wounded at least 45 others. 

The students marched to the Administrative Building to air their opposition after the flag raising ceremony. 

“Sana before tayo bumalik sa normalcy na inaasam natin, i-advance muna natin ang safety at security ng mga students kasi at the end of the day, yun man ang very purpose ng university is to be a home and a home should be a safe place. Kung hindi siya safe, hindi siya home. Yun lang po academic ease now,” said third year political science student Bryce Sapadiaon.

School officials explained that classes should not be hampered as safety and security measures are already in place inside the campus.

“We acknowledge that there is a growing call from the student to shift to online classes. We will consider whether - in the coming days may bagong deliberation - whether the university officials will consider their decision,” said Atty. Rashid Pandi of the MSU-Marawi Personnel Management office.

Officials said academic activities will continue while waiting for the decision of the school administration whether or not the university will shift to online classes.

The university also announced that final examinations are moved to January next year.

University officials have asked the students finish the remaining 11 days before the semester ends.

The university has identified pick-up locations to fetch students who went home in their provinces back to the campus. Students in Surigao, Butuan, Agusan del Sur, Agusan del Norte, Misamis Oriental, and Bukidnon will be picked up at Agora Bus Terminal in Cagayan de Oro. Meanwhile, students from Zamboanga del Sur will be fetched at Pagadian City Bus Terminal while those from Lanao del Sur will be picked up at Malabang Municipal Hall.

An alleged accomplice of the main suspects in the bombing has been arrested. He was arrested after photos of the suspects were made public.