Probers closing in on CDO bistro blast suspects

MANILA, Philippines - Authorities are now getting "close" to arresting the suspects in the deadly bistro blast in Cagayan de Oro City last Friday night.

City mayor Oscar Moreno said in a radio interview that investigators have already shorten the list of leads they are pursuing in the blast's investigation.

"May mga leads, and the police and law enforcement agencies are pursuing these leads...the number of leads gets smaller and the focus deeper is more thorough," Moreno said.

The mayor, however, declined to provide more details so as not to bungle the ongoing investigation.

"Hindi pa rin natin ma-discount 'yung nakakagimbal na possibility. I have said enough and I cannot say anything more than that," he added.

He also described the leads being followed up by investigators as "isolated."

"Based on the leads, hindi masyadong disconcerting. The motive seems to be isolated," the Cagayan de Oro mayor said.

The blast, which authorities believe was caused by an improvised bomb, took place at around 11:10 p.m. at the Kylas Bistro and Candys Café at the Rosa Rio Arcade of the Limketkai Mall building.

Initially killed were 1st District Misamis Oriental Board member Roldan Lagbas, Antonio Paredes, Anthony Canete, Emmanuel Palafox, Ryan Estose and Dr. Erwin Malanay.

Three of the victims died instantly while three others died while being treated in hospitals.

Most of the victims were attending a seminar during the blast, police said.

Two more victims died while being treated in hospitals in Cagayan de Oro City. They were identified as Dr. Marciano Agustin and Reynaldo Dalupan, a medical representative.