Military foils Sayyaf plot to bomb Sulu cemetery

MANILA, Philippines – Government troops may have foiled a bombing attack in Jolo, Sulu with the discovery of an improvised explosive device at a local cemetery where hundreds are expected to gather today and tomorrow for the observance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.

The discovery followed an intelligence report on an alleged Abu Sayyaf plot to launch terror activities in areas where there would likely be high concentration of civilians. The discovery of the alleged terror plot also came after Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Ricardo Marquez ordered inspection of all cemeteries, airports, seaports, and other public places to ensure a peaceful observance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls Day.

Brig. Gen. Alan Arrojado, commander of the Joint Task Group Sulu, said elements of the K9 unit and explosive ordnance of the 2nd Marine Brigade found the improvised explosive device at 7 a.m. yesterday at the Mt. Carmel Cemetery.

He said the ordnance team found the bomb inside a bag. The IED consisted of a 10-liter container with ammonium nitrate. A cellular phone served as detonator.

He said the IED – after being disassembled – was brought to headquarters for further examination.

Last minute check

Marquez, meanwhile, personally led yesterday a last minute check on cemeteries, bus terminals, seaports and airports as thousands began their trip to the provinces or to cemeteries.

Interior and Local Government Secretary Mel Senen Sarmiento also conducted surprise inspection at some cemeteries to check the preparedness of the PNP, the Bureau of Fire Protection, and local government units over which his department has jurisdiction.

The DILG chief said he was satisfied with the security measures set in place by concerned government units.

High on Marquez’s list of places to inspect yesterday were Araneta Bus Terminal in Cubao in Quezon City, Manila South Cemetery,  Ayala MRT Station,  Victory Liner Bus Terminal, Manila North Harbor Passenger Terminal, and the NAIA Terminal 3, PNP spokesman Chief Superintendent Wilben Mayor said. He began his rounds at 3 p.m.

“Heightened (alert status) will be declared towards the end of the week,” Mayor said, adding that unit commanders would be given “flexibility to elevate further the alert level” if necessary.

The entire National Capital Regional Police Office (NCRPO) was also placed on full alert status starting Thursday as part of security preparation for All Saints’ Day today.

NCRPO chief Director Joel Pagdilao has ordered district chiefs to review and update their security and traffic plans.

NCRPO spokesman Chief Inspector Kimberly Molitas said “all policemen will be on duty and all leaves are cancelled to give our full force for the security of the general public during All Saints’ and All Souls’ Day.”

Molitas said the security measures cover 98 cemeteries, 150 bus terminals, seven piers and two ports.

She reminded the public that bringing of bladed instruments to cemeteries – even for clearing shrubs around tombs – would no longer be allowed.

Earlier, the PNP warned the public against seeking the service of fake priests at cemeteries.

Superintendent Lucio Rosaroso Jr. of the PNP Chaplain Service advised the public to just offer masses for their dead loved ones at their respective parish churches. – With Roel Pareño, Jaime Laude