9 persons monitored for possible terror try during Nazarene celebrations—Robredo

MANILA, Philippines—Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo said on Sunday that authorities were monitoring six to nine individuals identified with a terror group based in Mindanao who might cause disruptions during Monday’s Black Nazarene celebrations.

Speaking to reporters after President Aquino announced on government radio and television of a possible bomb attack during the celebrations, Robredo made it clear that there was no specific threat that the group, whose members were spotted in the National Capital Region, was out to make trouble on Monday.

“They might just use the opportunity (to cause trouble at the procession),” Robredo said of the terrorists, in explaining the government’s increased security preparations.

He said that had the terror threat specified the Black Nazarene celebrations, officials would have moved to ask Catholic Church officials just to hold a Mass in marking the Feast of the Black Nazarene.

Pressed about the identity of the terror group, Robredo said that for now, they could not connect it with the Abu Sayyaf group.

This as Robredo said that aside from prohibiting devotees from carrying cellphones, weapons and fireworks at the procession, they have also been asked not to carry backpacks or bags. He said policemen have been instructed to inspect all bags carried by devotees.