Possible elementary school bombing in Basilan foiled

ZAMBOANGA City, Philippines - Security forces on Monday morning foiled what could have been a deadly bombing attack at an elementary school in Lamitan City, Basilan.

Senior Inspector Gean Gallardo, Lamitan City police chief, said an improvised explosive device was discovered at the back of one of the classrooms in the Colonia Elementary School in Barangay Colonia, before 8 a.m.

Gallardo said a civilian noticed a suspicious package at the back of the schoolroom, and immediately called their station.

While the bomb was being defused, members of the local police's Explosive and Ordnance Team swept the school for more bombs.

The school is located near a military base.