Grenade Blast Rocks Site of Upcoming Fast Food Opening in Lamitan City

Daphne Santuyo

Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay - Festive preparations for the grand opening of a new fast-food outlet in Barangay Malakas, Lamitan City, Basilan were abruptly shattered Tuesday night after unidentified attackers hurled a grenade at the establishment.

The explosion occurred at approximately 7:00 p.m. on March 3, jolting the neighborhood and sending nearby residents scrambling for safety. Local authorities confirmed that the blast struck the storefront just four days before its highly anticipated opening.

Eyewitness accounts and initial police findings indicate that two suspects, riding tandem on a single motorcycle, carried out the attack. The assailants reportedly slowed down as they approached the building, tossed the explosive device at the entrance, and quickly fled toward an undisclosed direction.

Despite the significant structural damage caused by the blast, casualties were minimal. One bystander, 22-year-old Reveil Masulog of Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur, sustained minor shrapnel wounds. Emergency responders arrived within minutes to provide medical assistance. Masulog is currently in stable condition and remains under observation for possible shock related to the incident.

The Lamitan City Police have launched a manhunt to identify and apprehend the suspects. Investigators are reviewing surveillance footage from nearby establishments and interviewing witnesses to determine the motive behind the attack. Community leaders expressed concern over the incident, noting that it appears to target a new commercial development in the province. As of this writing, no individual or group has claimed responsibility.

Authorities continue to urge anyone with relevant information to come forward as the investigation remains ongoing.