Manila cops prepare security plan for Rizal Day bombing anniversary

Police in Manila have prepared tight security measures for the city on Friday, in time for the 11th anniversary of the deadly Rizal Day bombings.

 

Manila Police District (MPD) spokesman Chief Inspector Erwin Margarejo said personnel will be deployed to crowded areas on Friday, radio dzBB's Carlo Mateo reported.

 

According to Margarejo, MPD personnel will be deployed to crowded areas including the Light Rail Transit (LRT) terminals, malls, and the Divisoria commercial district.

 

He said this is despite the MPD having no intelligence report of any threat for this year's Rizal Day.

 

On Friday, the nation marks the martyrdom of Philippine national hero Dr. Jose Rizal.

 

At least 22 people were killed while more than 100 were injured in a series of bomb explosions in Metro Manila on Dec. 30, 2000.

 

One of the bombs exploded inside a packed LRT coach at the LRT's Blumentritt station, while another exploded at Plaza Ferguson near the US Embassy.

 

The other bombs exploded at a gas station in Makati City; the cargo handling area of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport; and a bus in Cubao, Quezon City. — LBG, GMA News