MANILA, Philippines – Checkpoints will be set up all over Davao City following a deadly explosion in a night market late Friday night, September 2.

“One of the instructions is that checkpoints will be established all over the city and it is best that people cooperate,” said Presidential Spokesman Ernesto Abella after attending an emergency conference called by President Rodrigo Duterte early Saturday morning.

Abella advised those in Davao City to comply with the checkpoint requirements which include turning off car headlights and internal lights, rolling down windows, and being ready to present identification documents.

Duterte, who served as Davao City mayor for around 3 decades, presided over the emergency meeting.

Communications Secretary Martin Andanar described Duterte as “saddened” and the mood during the meeting as “intense.”

“Malungkot po, malungkot po kami dito sa opisina at nakikiramay kami sa mga kapamilya ng mga namatayan,” said Andanar.

(Sad, we are sad here at the office and we extend our condolences to the families of those who have died.)

Families of the dead will be given P25,000, said Andanar, recalling what was discussed at the meeting.

Authorities are currently focused on the investigation into the deadly blast.

Andanar asked the public to “stay calm” and cooperate with the authorities. – Rappler.com