New ISIS-inspired group also eyed in Kudarat blast; death toll now 3

The death toll from Tuesday night's bombing in Isulan, Sultan Kudarat, has climbed to three, dzBB's Jonathan Andal reported on Dobol B Sa News TV on Thursday.

The report, citing Philippine National Police (PNP) Region 12 spokesperson Superintendent Aldrin Gonzales, said the latest fatality, Welmark John Lapides, 21, passed away after remaining in critical condition in a hospital at General Santos City.

Before him, a 52-year-old woman and a seven-year-old child were killed in the attack that injured over 30 others.

Another report on Dobol B sa News TV said security forces are also looking into the ISIS-inspired Abu Turaifie group, led by one Esmail Sheikh Abdulmalik alias Abu Turaifie, as suspects in the blast.

"They claim it. They are claiming affiliation with ISIS, and also with BIFF (Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters)," PNP chief Director General Oscar Albayalde said.

The military has earlier blamed the BIFF for the explosion, which occurred during the Hamungaya Festival.

"We believe that the terrorist group BIFF is the primary suspects behind this atrocity. They are the ones who have the strongest, evil desire, to initiate this kind of attack," military spokesman Col. Noel Detoyato said. —KBK, GMA News