MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang on Thursday condemned the bombing in Sultan Kudarat that left at least 18 individuals hurt, and vowed to put perpetrators to justice.
“The Palace deplores yesterday (Wednesday) afternoon’s explosion in Isulan, Sultan Kudarat which wounded scores of individuals, who are currently receiving medical treatment,” Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said in a statement.
Authorities reported the explosion was caused by an improvised explosive device that went off in front of Carlito’s Chicken restaurant along the national highway in Barangay Kalawag 2, Isulan.
Those hit by the blast were confined in four hospitals — the Holy Nazarene Hospital, the Isulan Doctors’ Specialist, and the Sultan Kudarat Provincial Hospital, all in Isulan; and the St. Louis Hospital in Tacurong City.
READ: 18 hurt as blast rocks Sultan Kudarat restaurant
The Palace official noted that investigation is ongoing, and according to the Philippine National Police, extortion is behind the dastardly act.
READ: Extortion behind Isulan bombing – police
Isulan town Mayor Maritess Pallasigue said they have identified the suspects of the blast based on the closed circuit television (CCTV) recovered near the area.
Panelo also called on the public to remain vigilant and to report to the authorities any suspicious behavior.
“While we commit to bring the perpetrators to justice, we also continue to advise the public to remain vigilant in their surroundings and not to be hesitant in reporting any unusual behavior that they may observe to proper authorities,’ he said. /kga