Two Explosion Rocked Davao Night Market

DAVAO CITY - Ten people were killed while 60 others were injured in an explosion at the night market on Padre Gomez St., Davao City, around 10:15 p.m., Friday, September 2, said Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella.

The victims were rushed to the Southern Philippines Medical Center, Lismo Hospital, Davao Doctors Hospital, and Brokenshire Hospital.

"Let us pray for the victims of this unfortunate incident, especially for those who died. Let us pray for those who are being treated in different hospitals and pray for their quick recovery. There are at least 10 people who perished because of the incident and a number were reported wounded," Davao City Vice Mayor Paolo Duterte said in a statement.

"Rest assured the authorities are on top of this incident. Right now, we cannot yet give definite answer to as to who is behind this as we are also trying to determine what really exploded. It's a sad day for Davao and for the Philippines," the vice mayor added.



Presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella confirmed that some 60 people were wounded who were rushed to the San Pedro Hospital for treatment.

The City Government of Davao posted on its Facebook account: "Reported explosion in Davao City Friday night left a number of people dead and several others wounded.

"Investigations goin on. Vice Mayor Paolo Duterte asked public to go home and bars to close down."

A second explosion allegedly happened minutes after the first explosion.

Students at the Ateneo de Davao University have been advised to go home, and bars have been closed as a lockdown is placed on the area.

The incident comes after the national police force thwarted an assassination plot against President Rodrigo Duterte, who usually flies home to Davao City every weekend.

Duterte was in Davao on Friday, but was safe and at a police station after the explosion, his son - and the city's vice mayor - Paolo Duterte said.

In a statement to citizens, Paolo Duterte said: "Let us pray for the victims of this unfortunate incident, especially for those who died.

"Let us pray for those who are being treated in different hospital because of the incident and a number were reported wounded.

"Right now, we cannot yet give definitive answers to questions as to who is behind this as we are also trying to determine what really exploded. It is a sad day for Davao and the Philippines."

Police are currently investigating the cause of the explosion. Inspector Catherine dela Rey said in a radio interview there is no report yet on what caused the blast.

But she said officers "confirmed many were injured," and that "more or less 30 wounded were brought to hospital."


Hundreds of social media users have already paid tribute to those hurt or potentially killed in the explosion.

Laurence said: "Davao City may never be the Davao City we used to know anymore."

Junrix Monter said: "I was deeply saddened to hear about the bombing in Davao City. My thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families."

Reza Parker added: "Davao City was rocked by an explosion tonight. My prayers are with you, Davao. Be strong as a community."

Kyle Vincent said: "My thoughts are with my friends in Davao City tonight. I hope you and your loved ones are safe."

Coley tweeted: "Multiple casualties after explosion at night market in Davao City, #Philippines.

"My heart goes out to them. Hopefully not an attack."

Angelly added: "I just can't bear everything that's been happening. Praying for everybody. Praying for Davao City. #PrayForDavao."