Business rivalry eyed in resto grenade attack

MANILA, Philippines — Police probers are looking into a business rivalry as a possible motive behind the grenade-throwing incident in front of a restaurant in San Miguel, Manila on Saturday afternoon.

Closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage from Barangay 636 showed that an unidentified man on a motorcycle hurled a grenade at C-Foods restaurant owned by Macario Tinio at the corner of Concepcion Aguila and 4th streets at around 3:30 p.m.

Manila Police District (MPD) director Brig. Gen. Vicente Danao Jr. said no one was hurt in the attack. But the explosion caused panic among residents in the area.

MPD Station 8 commander Lt. Colonel Carlito Grijaldo said they have yet to identify the grenade thrower, who was wearing a helmet, black jacket and basketball shorts.

“We are checking CCTV footage to determine where the suspect came from,” Grijaldo said.

Danao said they are also eyeing a personal grudge as a possible motive.

Tinio told probers that he received threats through text messages one week prior to the grenade attack.

A few months ago, an unidentified man threw a hammer at the restaurant’s glass window.

The restaurant is known for its affordable prices.

Police are looking into the possibility that some employees who were laid off by Tinio could be involved in the incident.