Motorcycle rider dead as IED explodes in Maguindanao

COTABATO CITY - A motorcycle rider passing by was killed while his back rider was injured when an improvised explosive device (IED) exploded along the national road going to downtown South Upi, Maguindanao on Tueday morning.

The fatality was identified as Alberto delos Santos, a resident of Barangay Purikay, Lebak, Sultan Kudarat.

His back rider was identified as Loreto Palma Jr., 54, also a resident of Barangay Purikay.

He was rushed to Cotabato Regional and Medical Center in Cotabato City for the treatment of shrapnel wounds.

The two were on their way to Cotabato City for a medical checkup when the incident occurred at 5:45 a.m.

Shane Jae Collado, a resident in Barangay Romangaob nearby, said he was awakened by the sound of the explosion.

"Akala ko anong pampagising lang. Bomba na pala," he said.

South Upi Mayor Reynalbert Insular condemned the incident.

"Our police are now on the ground gathering more information," he said.

Meanwhile, another IED exploded in the market area in South Upi on Tuesday before 11 a.m.

An explosives and ordnance team managed to defuse the bomb.

Target

Insular doubted that the bombers were targeting a cell tower nearby.

A few weeks ago, Insular survived an ambush try and bomb attack by the roadside in Pilar Village after he visited the nearby Itaw village.

The village was targeted by alleged members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters.

One of the civilian passengers who hitched a ride with Insular's convoy got hit and died. 

It was the third attempt on Insular's life since he was elected in 2016.

Land-based conflict is among the issues hounding the town of South Upi. —KG, GMA News