DATU ODIN SINSUAT, Maguindanao – Two explosions rocked Barangay Semba in this town Friday morning, likely the handiwork of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), the military said.

The first explosion happened on the side of the highway around 6:45 a.m., followed by another blast 10 minutes later at least 10 meters away.

No one was hurt in the twin blasts but shrapnel hit the gate of a nearby house and several trees in the area.

Authorities are still determining the identity of the culprits and the motive behind the explosion.

Based on metal fragments retrieved at the scene, investigation found that the explosives may have been mortar rounds.

The military believes the BIFF may be behind the blast for three possible reasons: to sow terror, to hurt civilians and uniformed personnel, or to retaliate amid ongoing military operations against the armed group.

A spokesperson for the armed group, however, denied the allegation.

Abu Misry Mama said the BIFF had nothing to do with the twin explosions or the foiled bomb attempt at the national highway of Barangay Satan, Shariff Aguak last Monday.

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