1 dead, 15 wounded in Cotabato explosion

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MANILA – One college student was killed while 15 others were hurt when suspected members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) set off a homemade bomb on Sunday in Kabacan town.

According to the authorities, the suspect left the improvised explosive device (IED) close to a highway pedestrian overpass and detonated by a use of mobile phone.

Monique Mantawil, a development communication student of the University of Southern Mindanao was killed, while the injured residents Giezel Mae Butil, Samra Sembaga, Hartzel Bragat, Tonton Kusain, Flo Rohana, Girlie Royless, Rowena Nufies, Albert Palakpak, Ritchie Baguio, Queen Mary Alimuhanid, Muhamed Masukat, Ibrahim Bantulan, Arvie Estrella, and Mervin Lagat were immediately rushed to the provincial hospital in Kidapawan City and some lcinics in Kabacan.

Investigators noted that they were able to recover two more unexploded IEDs near the scene of explosion.

The bomb disposal squads of both the police and Army immediately defused the IEDs.

Gov. Emmylou Taliño-Mendoza of North Cotabato already offered a reward of P100,000 for anyone who could provide information about the suspects.

“This is insane. As your governor, I am hurt and angry,” Mendoza said.

She encourage her constituents to be more vigilant.

“Join me in embracing peace as we demand justice for all the victims of this senseless adventurism,” she said.