US warns nationals in Philippines vs Metro Manila bomb plot

MANILA, Philippines - The United States on Thursday alerted its citizens in the country after three men who allegedly planned to conduct bombings in Metro Manila were arrested earlier this week.

In a security message, the US embassy in Manila reminded American nationals to remain vigilant and maintain an appropriate level of personal security.

It urged US citizens to review their personal security plans, to remain aware of their surroundings, including local events and monitor local news sources.

"If you see a suspicious object or package, do not disturb it. Immediately notify an appropriate official, such as a police officer or building security staff, and leave the area," the embassy said.

"If you are in the vicinity when a security threat occurs, leave the area immediately. Do not approach the scene of a bombing or remain in the area," it added.

On Sunday, a plot to bomb Metro Manila was believed to have been averted following the arrest in Quezon City of three men, one of whom had been tagged in the Maguindanao airport explosion in 2003.

Police identified the suspects as Ricardo Ayeras, Andrescio Valdez and Ricky Macapagal.

The STAR reported that Ayeras was a member of the Rajah Solaiman Movement who had been charged in connection with the Awang airport bombing in Datu Odin Sinsuat.

The report said Ayeras yielded a hand grenade when he was arrested.