Makati City Hall back to normal after bomb threat

Makati City Hall (Photo by Ryan Leagogo/ INQUIRER.net)

MANILA — The Makati City Hall was evacuated on Tuesday morning after a caller warned that a bomb was planted in the building.

The call was received by the switchboard operator at 9:56 a.m., according to Richie Rodriguez, head of the Makati Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO).

Mayor Abigail Binay ordered the evacuation as part of protocol and the MDRRMO conducted panelling on all floors.

City Hall operations resumed after the building was declared cleared at 11:02 a.m.

Binay earlier urged the people in Makati to stay calm but vigilant following the bombing of a night market in Davao City that killed 14 people and wounded 67.

She directed the Makati police, public safety personnel and barangay officials to take immediate steps to secure the city, while mall operators and building owners were asked to coordinate with the police in beefing up security.

“I convey to the government and people of Davao our message of solidarity in these difficult times. Our prayers go to the families of the victims, and our wishes for the speedy recovery of those who have been injured. Makati stands with Davao,” Binay said.  SFM/rga