DAVAO CITY – A powerful explosion caused by a car bomb rocked Eco West Drive, Ecoland, Davao City Thursday. The incident, believed to be the result of a deliberate act, occurred around 10 am and targeted a parked vehicle belonging to prominent lawyer Atty. Alberto Magulta.
Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud blast originating from a white All Utility Vehicle (AUV) in front of a nearby condominium. The vehicle, which sustained significant damage, was promptly identified as Atty. Magulta’s. Fortunately, there were no reported casualties or injuries resulting from the explosion.
According to Fernan Silvano, a sales agent present in the office at the time, the explosion was clearly audible even inside the building.
“He was the first person near the vehicle because we were inside the office. We briefly stepped out to make a convenience store purchase, and he was standing beside our tent. We took the tent from the vehicle, and while we were setting it up, the explosion occurred. It was a nerve-racking experience, and the force was incredibly strong,” Silvano recalled.
In response to the incident, the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team, the Davao City Forensic Unit, and local law enforcement swiftly mobilized, cordoning off the area for investigation and ensuring public safety. Clad in bomb suits, EOD personnel meticulously examined the vehicle to ascertain the origin and nature of the explosive device used.
Davao City Police Director, PCOL. Alberto Lupaz, provided insights into the ongoing investigation. “We are currently in the vicinity of the exploded vehicle. Our explosive EOD unit promptly responded and successfully neutralized the threat. At present, our forensic unit is on-site to examine and analyze the collected particles. Through careful examination, we aim to determine the type of explosive utilized, be it a grenade or another device,” PCOL. Lupaz stated.
The CCTV footage retrieved by authorities captured two individuals suspected of planting the explosive device beneath Atty. Magulta’s parked vehicle. Preliminary assessments suggest that the suspects, who appear to be between 20 to 25 years old, deliberately targeted the lawyer’s car.
PCOL. Lupaz further elaborated on the possible motives behind the crime, noting, “Atty. Magulta mentioned that he has been handling high-profile cases and has previously received threats. Given the specific selection of his vehicle and the placement of the explosive device, we are treating this incident as work-related. It seems likely that the suspects targeted the lawyer due to the cases he has been handling, possibly driven by their dissatisfaction and a desire to cause harm.”
Despite attempts by the news team to secure a statement from Atty. Magulta, he declined to comment, leaving the public eager for updates on the investigation.
The Davao City Police Office (DCPO) reassured the community of heightened security measures following the explosion. In coordination with the Task Force Davao, authorities vowed to maintain a culture of security in the city, emphasizing their commitment to the safety and well-being of the residents.
As the investigation progresses, law enforcement authorities are determined to identify the suspects responsible for this brazen act. The motive behind the incident, whether personal or work-related, remains a focal point in their ongoing efforts.
The DCPO urges anyone with relevant information to come forward and assist in the investigation. Updates will be provided as the case unfolds.
