Security officials tell senators: Phl in safe hands

Officials of the country's security agencies have given assurance that the Philippines is in safe hands in the aftermath of the bombing at Mindanao State University (MSU) that left four people dead and scores injured last Sunday, according to Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri.

- CECILLE SUERTE FELIPE

Emerging after almost two hours of an executive session yesterday, Zubiri echoed the pronouncement of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Philippine National Police (PNP) that persons of interest in connection with the bomb attack are now the subject of a massive manhunt.

"After the security briefing, it was shown the Philippines is in safe hands, according to the AFP and PNP," he said.

"We got a good briefing with friends from intel service: Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro, AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. and PNP chief Benjamin Acorda Jr.," he added.

Zubiri called for an executive briefing from the agencies after an improvised explosive device ripped through the MSU gymnasium while a holy mass was being celebrated. The Islamic State group has claimed responsibility for the blast.

Also present in the executive session were National Intelligence Coordinating Agency Director General Ricardo de Leon, NICA Assistant Director General Theodore Libardo and National Security Adviser Eduardo Año.