Two Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) personnel were injured after explosive material detonated inside their barracks in Zamboanga City on Saturday night, October 24, while they were preparing instructional materials for an upcoming training activity.
The explosion occurred at around 10:39 p.m. inside the barracks of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit–Southwestern Mindanao (EODU-SWM), located within the Port Police Compound at the Zamboanga City International Pier along Corcuera Street in the city's Port Area, according to the PCG.
Both personnel were rushed to Ciudad Medical Hospital for treatment. They were conscious upon arrival and were receiving medical care and monitoring, the Coast Guard said.
Explosive Material Detonates During Training Preparations
Initial reports from the PCG indicated that the two personnel were preparing for the upcoming Explosive Ordnance Reconnaissance Agent (EORA) Training when the explosion occurred.
The material involved was described as a low explosive intended for instructional purposes. The PCG classified the incident as an accidental detonation during the handling and preparation of explosive materials within its premises.
The agency has not publicly identified the two personnel or provided further details about the nature and severity of their injuries.
PCG Says Blast Was Not Terrorism-Related
The Coast Guard clarified that the explosion was not connected to any terrorist activity, addressing concerns about the incident.
In its statement, the agency said the detonation had been classified as accidental and urged the public to remain calm while authorities investigate the circumstances surrounding the blast.
However, the precise cause of the detonation has not yet been publicly established, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Investigation Underway
The PCG said authorities are continuing to investigate the incident to determine the circumstances that led to the explosion.
As of October 26, the agency had not announced a timeline for the release of its findings. Further details about the injured personnel's condition and any possible safety measures following the incident had also not been disclosed in the reports reviewed.
