Albayalde flies to Koronadal to inspect security after weekend blast

“We are looking into the involvement of a certain group because apparently, these groups, they have their territorial jurisdictions also but we cannot divulge this group as yet,” Albayalde said in a press briefing before leaving for Koronadal City.(PCOO photo)

MANILA — Philippine National Police Chief Oscar Albayalde flew to Koronadal City in South Cotabato on Monday to personally inspect the security situation following the explosion near a church and the discovery of bombs in the city over the weekend.

“We are looking into the involvement of a certain group because apparently, these groups, they have their territorial jurisdictions also but we cannot divulge this group as yet,” Albayalde said in a press briefing before leaving for Koronadal City.

Albayalde said the injuries sustained by the victims are very minor but a final report on the details of the incident is still being awaited.

“As of this time, what we know is that the two victims who were wounded sustained minor injuries. Apparently, nails and powder were used in making the explosive,” Albayalde said in Filipino.

He confirmed that one of the recovered unexploded bomb was destroyed by bomb experts.

The PNP Explosives and Ordnance Department (EOD) have also conducted safety procedure using bomb sniffing dogs, the PNP chief added.

An Improvised Explosive Device (IED) reportedly exploded near the St. Anthony Parish Cathedral on Sunday injuring two. Subsequently, other IEDs were discovered in the commercial district but were defused.