At least seven hurt as homemade bomb explodes in Sultan Kudarat public market: AFP

September 8, 2019

At least seven people were hurt after an improvised bomb exploded in a public market in Sultan Kudarat on Saturday morning.

Major Arvin Encinas, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Western Mindanao Command spokesman, said the explosion occurred in Isulan town  around 7am.

“Initial report stated that the improvised explosive device (IED) was placed beside a motorcycle parking area and was purportedly carried out by lawless elements,” he said.

“Said explosion resulted in the wounding of seven individuals who were rushed to the nearest hospital for immediate medical attention,” he added.

Encinas identified the victims as Jomar Catalan Aquino, 30, Jay Carnaso, 30, Gerald Cartagena, 28, Niño Minus Virgo, 28, Jarren Binaluon Amigo, 24, Gulano Nasim Salip 24, and traffic enforcer Cagadas Terrencio, 35.

He said government forces are still conducting investigation to identify the suspect behind the explosion.

“Thorough investigation of the incident is still being conducted by the joint elements of the military and police,” said Encinas.

Following the explosion, Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, Western Mindanao Command commander, call the public to be more vigilant and to report any suspicious package or person within their community.

"Let us be more vigilant and immediately report any suspicious person or things in your vicinity to avoid such occurence," Sobejana said.

"I enjoin everyone to offer their prayers for the speedy recovery of the victims and for the enlightenment of the perpetrators who aim to undermine the stability of Sultan Kudarat," he added. Robina Asido/DMS