Abandoned toolbox causes bomb scare in Makati

MANILA, Philippines - A metal toolbox abandoned in Makati City’s central business district caused a bomb scare before noon yesterday.

The toolbox was found in front of a convenience store at the Zuellig building, located at the corner of Paseo de Roxas and Makati Avenue at around 11 a.m., according to the Makati Operations Center.

The toolbox was found by city public safety enforcer Christopher Sales.

Police officers said the toolbox, which was opened with a “water charge” used to defuse improvised explosive devices (IEDs), was found to contain various tools.

Public safety personnel reported that the toolbox came from a gray L-300 van with license plate UBS-614, but they cannot say whether the toolbox was accidentally left behind.

Last Friday, an IED was found at the parking area of the Guadalupe Mall Market in Guadalupe Viejo at around 7 p.m.

The IED contained an alarm clock, wires with electric tape and nails, but no detonating devices or explosives. The device was defused by bomb experts. 

No destabilization plot

Meanwhile, a senior military intelligence official said yesterday they “don’t see any connection” between the bomb scares and an alleged plot to destabilize the government and derail the ongoing investigations of Vice President Jejomar Binay and his immediate family members on allegations of corruption.

Another source in the intelligence community said what concerns them is the spate of bombings in Central Mindanao, specifically in the towns of Kabacan and Mlang and Cotabato City. The attacks, which occurred in the past week, left four people dead and 41 others wounded.