An explosion occurred on Sunday night in Buluan, Maguindanao del Sur, a town under Comelec control ahead of the May 12 elections. The blast targeted the gate of Hisham Nando’s residence, a candidate for Vice Governor under the United Bangsamoro Justice Party (UBJP). This marks the second explosion in the area since April 18, when three grenades were thrown within the town hall compound, injuring one person and damaging properties. The latest incident, which took place around 8 p.m. in Poblacion Buluan, was confirmed by Lt. Dean Carlo Macusi, Buluan’s police chief, while Lt. Col. Jopy Ventura of the PRO-BARMM stated that a hot pursuit operation is underway. Authorities are investigating whether a grenade or an improvised explosive device caused the explosion, which caused slight damage to Nando’s gate. Nando, a key figure in UBJP, the political arm of the MILF, was campaigning in Talayan at the time of the blast. He condemned the attack, stating he has no personal grudges but vowed not to be intimidated. Buluan was placed under Comelec control on April 15 due to escalating election-related violence. Local leaders, including Mayor Baby Dhats Mangudadatu, condemned the attack, calling it a “cowardly move” and urging swift action from law enforcement. Nando is running against Datu Benzar Ampatuan of the Nacionalista Party for the Vice Governorship of Maguindanao del Sur. (Ferdinandh B. Cabrera / MindaNews)
