Zambo blast not the handiwork of terrorists — military

Last Thursday’s bombing incident in a southern Philippine airport was the handiwork of assassins and not of terrorists, the military said on Sunday. “We feel that this is only an isolated case. Apparently, based on the initial investigation, this may be political in nature because the target apparently is a political personality," said Armed Forces spokesman Brig. Gen. Jose Mabanta.

More than 20 people were hurt, including Sulu Governor Abdusakur Tan, in the explosion at the arrival area of the Zamboanga City Airport. Two people died in the explosion, including the alleged bomber identified as Reynaldo Apelado. “There are also indications that it [bomb] prematurely detonated. The intention of inflicting maximum casualty was not attained," Mabanta said. The bomb was inside Apelado’s bag when it exploded, the official added. Police have mounted a manhunt for at least three men linked to the attack. “We are looking into this now and ordered a manhunt for three men who are all accused in the bombing last year," said Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Jesus Verzosa, referring to the first assassination attempt against Tan. Versoza said two of the suspected bombers, who were captured in Sulu after a firefight with police forces, implicated Temogen Tulawie, Muamar Astali and a third man identified only by his first name, Abs, as their accomplices. “The three men are facing multiple frustrated murder and illegal possession of explosives. They are at large. Police forces are hunting down the three men," Verzosa said. On the other hand, local police said neighbors claimed Apelado had traveled to Cotabato and Pagadian City, which are believed to be the hiding places of Tulawie. - KBK, GMANews.TV