3 students hurt as bomb explodes in Cotabato City college

COTABATO CITY — Three students were injured when an improvised explosive device went off inside the premier college here, police said Tuesday.

The IED made of flash powder, cut nails and a triggering device, was planted and set off at 11 p.m. Monday beneath the grandstand of the Cotabato City State Polytechnic College (CCSPC) here where a band competition was held earlier.

Injured were Neil Barasbaras Borja, 20; Dondon Jumalon Bangis, 25; and Tyrone Sunico Jore, all residents of the Notre Dame Avenue, Cotabato City. They sustained injuries in various parts of their legs.

Police investigation showed the victims were preparing to leave the venue after the competition when the IED exploded.

Witnesses told police they saw a few men roaming around and under the grandstand before the blast.

Police were seeking the CCTV footage of CCSPC management as part of the investigation process.

Mayor Japal Guiani Jr. said he has directed the police to intensify the investigation and also increase police visibility in major city streets following the incident and the rash of shooting incidents here.  SFM