Trooper killed in Basilan blast

COTABATO CITY, Philippines  – A soldier was killed when an improvised explosive device (IED) believed planted by Abu Sayaf bandits exploded along the highway in Tipo-Tipo, Basilan Sunday.

Investigators have yet to determine if the IED was intended for the convoy of Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Gov. Mujiv Hataman and his brother, Basilan Rep. Jim Hataman, who were about to pass through the area on their way to Sumisip town for an official engagement.

Reports said the IED was placed under a tree near the Lagayas-Cabangalan section of the Basilan circumferential road in Tipo-Tipo. 

The fatality identified as Cpl. Hadjulla Manda was among a group of soldiers dispatched to secure the route for the Hatamans and other ARMM officials who were travelling to Barangay Buli-Buli in Sumisip.