Explosion hits Tacurong after Robredo visit

MANILA, Philippines (UPDATED) – An explosion hit Tacurong City in Sultan Kudarat province on Tuesday afternoon, February 2, just as the city was celebrating the Feast of Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria.

Camarines Sur 3rd District Representative Leni Robredo, the Liberal Party’s vice presidential candidate, was one of the guests for Tacurong’s celebration of the religious feast.

Police said an improvised explosive device (IED) went off inside a vehicle parked outside La Forteza Pharmacy along Jose Abad Santos Street. The explosion occurred around 2 pm, after Robredo’s convoy had already left the area at 11:20 am.

Tacurong City police chief Senior Superintendent Ranie Hachuela said two people – a 16-year-old and a 9-year-old – were injured.

“We are determining the explosive used as well the personalities behind [the incident],” Hachuela said.

Police added that Robredo’s convoy is safe. From Tacurong, the lawmaker proceeded to Awang, Cotabato, for the Bangsamoro Women Summit.

[ADMIN] Maayong hapon! After Upi & Tacurong, Cong. Leni is now in Awang, Cotabato for the Bangsamoro Women Summit. pic.twitter.com/QEu1fErjQE

— Leni Robredo (@lenirobredo) February 2, 2016

In a statement, Robredo condemned the bombing and expressed sympathies for the wounded.

“Nananawagan tayo sa mga awtoridad para mabigyan ng agarang pagkalinga ang mga nasaktan. Hinihingi rin natin ang mabilis na pagtugon sa pangyayari upang malaman natin ang ugat ng pagsabog at mapanagot sa batas ang mga nasa likod nito,” said Robredo.

(I appeal to the authorities to immediately address the needs of the injured victims. I am also seeking a prompt investigation into the incident to determine the motive behind it, and to bring the perpetrators to justice.) – Rappler.com