According to press reports quoting the police, the suspicious package was found inside a box along a with a cell phone and another electronic device, which the police successfully detonated. / AFP PHOTO / TED ALJIBE
(Eagle News)– Malacañang has directed heightened security in public places after an improvised explosive device (IED) was found near the United States (US) Embassy Monday, November 28.
“To ensure public safety in airports, seaports, bus and mass transport terminals, concerned transport agencies are instructed to increase the visibility and presence of uniformed personnel and heighten the screening of persons and luggage as part of our security vigilance,” Communications Secretary Martin Andanar said in a statement.
“We assure the public that this incident should not be a cause for alarm. Business and work continue as normal,” he added.
Parts of the IED found along the southbound lane of Roxas Boulevard include an 81-mm mortar, a 9-volt battery, cellular phone, a switch device and a blasting cap.
Based on initial investigations, the bomb was similar to the IED used in the Roxas night market bombing in Davao City last September.
The bomb was found by a street sweeper of the Department of Public Works and Highway in a trash can along the boulevard at past 7 a.m.
