IN THE wake of the second fatal explosion that rocked Isulan, Sultan Kudarat, Malacañang on Monday, September 3, urged residents of the southern Philippine town to exercise vigilance and report any suspicious activities.
Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque Jr. said the executive department condemned the reported second bombing in Isulan town on Sunday, September 2, killing at least one people and injuring 15 others.
Roque said the government hopes for the immedate recuperation of the wounded victims.
"We strongly denounce the latest attack in Isulan, Sultan Kudarat. We are deeply saddened by the death of one innocent victim, per initial report, and pray for the swift recovery of those injured," the Palace official said in a statement issued early Monday morning.
"We ask the residents to report anything suspicious to the authorities as we bring to justice all culprits behind this dastardly attack," he added.
Asecond bomb was detonated near an internet cafe in Isulan town past 7 p.m. Sunday.
The latest bombing came less than a week after three individuals were killed and over 30 others were wounded while Isulan was celebrating its 61st founding anniversary and the Hamungaya Festival last August 28.
Philippine National Police chief Director General Oscar Albayalde has already ordered his men to boost police visibility and tighten security in Isulan as a deterrent to further attacks.
Roque said President Rodrigo Duterte has already been informed of the latest development in Isulan.
"The President has been kept updated on all developments by the Philippine National Police, which has already ordered its men on the ground to increase visibility and patrol and tighten security," he said.
On August 29, Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea said extending martial law in the entire Mindanao was an "option," following the first bombing incident in Isulan, Sultan Kudarat.
Roque, however, said on August 31 that it was too early to call for a martial law extension.
The first martial law in Mindanao was imposed on May 23, 2017 following the deadly Marawi siege.
Congress extended the martial law declaration in the war-torn region twice upon the President's request.
The extension of martial rule is expected to expire on December 31, 2018. (VoxPop Philippines)