Second explosion hits Isulan, Sultan Kudarat; at least 1 killed

At least one individual was killed while four others were left critically injured by an explosion in an internet cafe in Isulan, Sultan Kudarat on Sunday.

Citing data from the regional office in South Central Mindanao, Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Oscar Albaylde said the incident happened at 7:35 p.m. inside Rrenz Internet Cafe on the corner of Valencia and Valdez Streets in Barangay Kalawag 2.

According to Albayalde, there were 14 victims in total. Among these victims was an 18-year-old who was declared dead on arrival, according to additional data from the PNP.

Seven of those injured were brought to the Sultan Kudarat Hospital, four to the Holy Nazarene Hospital, one to the Galinato Hospital, and two to the Specialist Hospital.

Identified among those injured were Dave Leliza, Kyle Solis, Paul Leterero, Jerson Bucoy, Raymart Agac Ac, Marialyn Luda, and Ivan Letrero.

Also injured were Rowe John Kinazo, Jane Allaga Pequerda, Timothy Falcis Pequerda, Rosalie Pagulidan, Joshua Sumblingo, and Fred Casamayor.

"We strongly condemn the attack on the people of Isulat at about 7:35 this evening. We are saddened by the casualties brought about by the cowardly act perpetrated by people hell-bent on their nefarious goals without regard for the lives of civilians," said Albayalde.

"I have instructed our men on the ground to increase patrol, tighten security in the area, and intensify our cooperation with all other allied forces."

This is the second explosion in Isulan after a bomb at a town celebration left one dead and 36 others injured on August 28.

Asked if the two explosions are related, Albayalde said authorities are still investigating.

“We can’t say that as of this time,” he explained.

Meanwhile, the Palace denounced the latest attack.

"The president has been kept updated on all developments by the Philippine National Police, which has already ordered its men on the ground to increase visibility and patrol and tighten security," said Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque.

"We ask the residents to report anything suspicious to the authorities as we bring to justice all culprits behind this dastardly attack."

‘It could be a test mission’

According to Isulan Mayor Marites Pallasigue in a report by GMA News Online contributor Ferdinandh Cabrera, the second explosion happened even amid stricter security measures following the first blast last month. 

"We exhausted our very best to secure the place amidst security threats but it still happened," she said.

"It could be a test mission," she said, when asked why the area was a target for such incidents. 

According to the 6th Division of the Philippine Army, the attack could most likely be led by the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) who have signified allegiance to the Islamic State (ISIS) terrorist group.

"This group has the fondest desire to initiate these types of attack to make an impression to the ISIS,” said Captain Arvin Encinas.

"Test mission of BIFF is a big possibility," added 6th Army Division Commander Major General Cirilito Sobejana.

The BIFF, through its spokesperson Aby Misry Mama, has denied the accusation. — BM, GMA News