Statement on the repression of Muslims in the Philippines on March 27, 1973

The people of Pakistan have been following with grave concern and anguish the alarming situation that now prevails in the southern Philippines resulting from a renewed escalation of repressive measures against the Muslim population. We are appalled at this recrudescence of violence which has already claimed several hundred Muslim lives and brought untold miseries and sufferings to the Muslims of the area. It is deplorable that these tragic events are taking place despite the assurances given by the leaders of Philippines to rectify through peaceful means the acknowledged inequalities and injustices suffered by the Muslims for a long time.

Relations between Pakistan and the Philippines, two fellow members of the Asian Community, have been traditionally friendly and cordial. In expressing our concern over the condition of the Muslims in the Philippines, therefore, we are motivated by a sincere desire to encourage a peaceful and durable settlement of the underlying causes of Muslim dissatisfaction. The Government and the people of Pakistan sincerely hope that the Government of the Philippines will respond to this humanitarian appeal and will take immediate steps to safeguard the lives and properties of the Muslim population and initiate measures that will assure them of their just rights.