Justice Secretary Leila
de Lima said Tuesday morning, that a
blocked attempt to smuggle improvised explosive into the Ninoy Aquino
International Airport was connected to a self-proclaimed anti-China group.De Lima
said in an NBI’s press conference, that the
leader of three men who was arrested on Monday named Pepito Guerrero, was
a self-proclaimed "general" of "USAFFE”. The two other arrested
members were identified as Emmanuel San Pedro and Sonny Diojanon.
De Lima said that they
are still figuring out the real number of the group’s member. The group is
frustrated with the stand of the Philippine government against China.
The three arrested men will undergo inquest proceedings this day and be
charged with illegal possession of explosives while there are some possible
added charges studied against them. Charges will include conspiracy to commit
terrorism in the country.
According to de Lima,
the group had bomb attempt as early as Aug. 25, National Heroes Day, but it did
not push through. The NBI learned from the informer about the USAFFE's plan on
Sunday night.
In an initial
investigation by the NBI, it was found out that the group claims to be the “defender” of the
Filipino people and they want the present administration to support a stronger
stand in the dispute with China.
De Lima said during the
interview, the improvised incendiary
device (IID) found inside the suspects' vehicle could potentially cause a fatal
fireball that will hurt anyone within five to 10 meters.
Chief of the NBI
Anti-Organized and Transnational Crime Division, said the IID found at NAIA-3
was supposed to be placed inside the comfort room at the parking area, while
the other three were going to be placed at the SM Mall of Asia.
