Explosion, 'suspected bomb' in Philippine capital before Marcos speech

An explosion near the Philippine justice ministry and the discovery of a suspected bomb near the Senate have heightened security concerns in Manila. The blast occurred just after midnight on Monday, with no reported casualties. Hours later, a second device was found near the Senate building.

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There was a big possibility or probability that the two (incidents) are related.

National police chief Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. stated there is a high probability the two incidents are related. He acknowledged that despite contingency plans for threats, "something got past us and exploded in front of the Department of Justice." The exact size and impact of the early morning blast remain under investigation.

Images from the scene showed a cracked vehicle windshield and debris. The device found near the Senate was spotted by a tow truck driver and alerted security. Explosive ordnance disposal personnel removed materials including a blasting cap, clock, and a jar of powder for testing. The potential size of the explosion from this device is also unknown.

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We are still investigating, so we cannot give you details on how massive or small the explosion was.

These events unfold as President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. prepares to deliver his annual State of the Nation address. The address comes at a time of significant political tension, including an impeachment trial for Vice President Sara Duterte and a corruption scandal related to flood control projects.

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We are still investigating, so we cannot give you details on how massive or small the explosion was.