(Eagle News) — The Palace on Thursday, April 4, condemned the blast in Sultan Kudarat that hurt at least 18 people, including children.
According to Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo, an investigation was already under way.
Authorities have, however, said extortion by rebel groups was a “probable motive” for the attack.
The police said weeks before the blast, the restaurant’s owner received extortion demands through text.
“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,” Panelo said.
The explosion caused by an improvised explosive device in Carlitos Chicken in Barangay Kalawag 2, Isulan, on Wednesday, April 3, caused injuries to Randy Tranquillero, Guiamadel Nurhana, Datu Joven Guiamadel, Tristan Casipe Dan Laguerder, Karl Denver Laguerder, Bai Amina Japitana, 8 years old, Watchel dela Cerna, Salyka Falcoagpet, Montasser Masunlog, Nasser Montasser, Malidas Bai ali Mindal, Malidas Mindatu Mindal, Che-Che Malidas, John Mark Sumandal, Johnny Garcia Jenny Pabagaman.
Six of the injured were children aged 7 to 16.
The police have blamed the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters for the attack.