As the Philippines was ranked eighth among countries with the highest risk of terrorist attacks, and 130th in the latest Global Peace Index, an explosion ripped apart a bus along EDSA in Makati the other afternoon. The blast was so powerful it blew down portions of a perimeter wall of a nearby house. As of yesterday afternoon, the death toll stood at five; several other bus passengers remained in critical condition.
Investigators said yesterday that the blast was most likely caused by a mortar bomb set off with a mobile phone. Security officials said the improvised explosive device is the type used by Islamic separatists, which could make the bombing a terrorist attack. But probers have not completely ruled out other possible angles, including political destabilization and a diversionary tactic of carjacking rings.
Whichever theory turns out to be correct, it is alarming that there are individuals or groups in this country with the capability and readiness to bomb a crowded bus along a major thoroughfare in Metro Manila. Malacañang should expect another update in the travel advisories on the Philippines of several countries.
In the age of al-Qaeda and the globalization of terrorism, a bomb attack can occur practically anywhere in the world. In many developing countries, the threat of terrorism is aggravated by rampant criminality. What matters is how countries respond to the various types of threats to public safety.
Bombers must be caught, convicted, penalized and not allowed to escape from prison. In other countries with more efficient law enforcement, terrorist plots are uncovered and foiled, and the plotters are caught and successfully prosecuted. Preventive measures are also implemented to promote public safety. Governments invest in technology to improve law enforcement and maintain peace and order.
Most of these measures can be implemented in the Philippines. Security officials must dispel a growing perception that there is a breakdown in peace and order, and the government is helpless in protecting the people.
