Bomb text threats cause panic in LRT

Security was tightened at the Metro Rail Transit (MRT) and Light Rail Transit (LRT) yesterday following the spread of a text message that bombs have been planted at the rail facilities.

"We don’t want to take any chances. It will be better for us to be on guard than ignore that text message," said Rogelio Estacio, head of Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC) Action Center.

The text message read: "(Sen. Gregorio) Honasan allies bombing MRT and LRT; bombs have been planted. Please pass to save lives."

Honasan, along with former Philippine National Police chief Director Panfilo Lacson, is now being hunted for allegedly plotting a take over of the presidential palace on May 1.

Both running for senator under the opposition Puwersa ng Masang Pilipino, Honasan and Lacson allegedly timed the take-over with the protest action of the supporters of jailed President Estrada at the EDSA Shrine.

MRT and LRT premises have been searched by explosive experts but no bomb was found. But just the same, more policemen and security personnel were deployed to the two railways.

Estacio noted that MRT and LRT employees have also been directed to be vigilant in case they notice suspicious-looking individuals.

Last Sunday, MRT-Cubao Station was rocked by an explosion when a grenade hurled by members of robbery group "Martilyo Gang" to an adjacent shopping mall exploded. At least 36 shoppers and mall employees were injured in the blast.

Before New Year’s Eve last December, scores of LRT passengers were killed and injured when suspected terrorists lobbed a bomb at the rail system. The explosive went off as a train reached the Blumentritt station in Manila.

Estacio added that they do not want such incidents to be repeated so they are taking precautionary measures. – Sheila Crisostomo