Basilan bridge damaged in blast

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines — A newly constructed bridge in Sumisip, Basilan was damaged in an explosion yesterday.

The military said no one was reported wounded when Abu Sayyaf bandits set off an improvised explosive device at around 3 a.m.

The bridge connects Barangays Candiis and Pamatsaken, according to the 101st Brigade and Joint Task Force Basilan.

Authorities said Abu Sayyaf bandits led by Pasil Bayali perpetrated the bombing after the construction firm owned by a certain Rojim Arai failed to heed their extortion demand.

The provincial government condemned the attack and directed concerned local government units to coordinate with police and military forces to prevent similar harassment.