This developed as the Philippine government joined the international community in condemning the massacre blamed on the Islamic State extremist group.

The IS has claimed responsibility for the carnage while Ukraine was quick in denying any hand in it.

“The Philippines strongly condemns the heinous attack at the Crocus Hall in Moscow on 22 March 2024, which resulted in the loss of innocent lives, caused injuries to several people, and significantly damaged properties,” the Department of Foreign Affairs said in a statement.

The DFA said there were no Filipinos among the 93 killed and over 100 wounded victims.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the bereaved families and wish the injured people speedy recovery.”

The department said at least 10,000 Filipinos live and work in Russia.

The chief of the Federal Security Service of Russia has reported to Russian President Vladimir Putin that 11 suspects have been detained, including four who are believed to be the attackers.

The arrests came a few hours after three to four gunmen armed with automatic rifles and carrying incendiary grenades attacked the Crockus City Hall, a shopping mall and music venue, located in Krasnogorsk, which is located near Moscow, on Friday (March 22).

The huge crowd was gathered at the concert hall for the live performance of the band “Picnic”.

At least 93 were killed while over 100 were injured as a result of the mass shooting.

Russian officials incredulous to the IS claim of responsibility and appeared to have pointed accusing finger at Ukraine.

However, Mykhailo Podolyak, adviser to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, reject the accusations, claiming that his government has nothing to do with the carnage.

“Ukraine has never resorted to the use of terrorist methods. Everything in this war will be decided only on the battlefield,” said Podolyak.

In a statement released thru its Aamaq news agency, the IS affiliate in Afghanistan boasted attacking a large gathering of “Christians’ in Krasnogorsk.