ONE of the safest cities in the country Davao City is in a state of lawlessness; this, after a bomb, suspected to be an improvised explosive device (IED) made from a mortar, rocked a night market where several people are buying things from tiangge stalls, eating on food kiosks or simply taking a stroll last Friday night.
People at the blast site were vendors, students who just came out from the Ateneo de Davao University, some tourists and local residents who were killed, injured or extremely shocked by the strong explosion.
As of this writing, there were 14 dead and 70 injured on the crowded night market. Some of the dead bodies were ripped apart showing signs of a strong blast that caused serious effects.
Authorities are currently investigating the incident and as this developed, the Abu Sayyaf claimed responsibility to the gruesome crime.
The recent bombing in the said city is evidently intended to shame President Rodrigo Duterte who has waged war against the Abu Sayyaf. Davao City is the home to the President.
A few days ago, the said armed group has vowed to retaliate to the government's effort of flushing them out from their lairs in Sulu and other island provinces in Mindanao. This might be it and might be also just one among the retaliatory acts of the Abu Sayyaf.
At this moment, the city government of Davao has stated that it is on top of the situation as families of the bombing victims cry for justice while the public condemns the ruthless attack against civilians who died senselessly bereft of any reason to suffer their sad fate.
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Meanwhile, the government's war on drugs continues to produce dead bodies of suspected drug pushers, users and protectors. It seems that law enforcers as well as suspected vigilante groups are winning it.
The killings against drug personalities alleged to be result of extrajudicial actions and summary executions has become ordinary. No day shall pass without hearing from the radio or television news that another body of an alleged drug personality has found dumped on a vacant lot or on the side of a street.
On the other hand, there are those suspected drug pushers or users who are in the hands of law enforcers who "tried to escape" or "tried to grab a firearm" of a police officer. Like any other stories, the suspect was subdued by the law enforcers by shooting him first.
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In the Senate, a war between Senator Leila De Lima and the President is also "in the house." This after the lady lawmaker questions the government's battle against the drug menace.
She was on the other hand accused of being a coddler or protector of drug lords who were seen in a video with her in some instances. In addition, she was also being slapped with allegations of having some amorous relationships with some men.
During a Senate investigation recently, De Lima exchanged arguments with Philippine National Police Chief Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa. The two are also at war, with the latter a trusted man of the President.
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