Grenade lobbed at Pangasinan mayor’s house

MANILA, Philippines - Unidentified men hurled a grenade at the house of Urdaneta City Mayor Amadeo G.E. Perez IV yesterday morning but it did not explode, a police official said.

Investigators are puzzled as to the motive for the attack since Perez, who is running for re-election under the Nationalist People’s Coalition, is unopposed.

One of Perez’ security personnel said he heard a loud sound at the main gate, but did not check it, thinking that it was only a vehicular accident outside the compound.

When Perez’ house helper went out at around 6:30 a.m., she saw a metal object in front of the main door and called the attention of the security personnel.

Responding policemen recovered parts of the hand grenade, including the safety pin and safety lever.

The grenade was recovered at around 9:20 a.m. and defused.