World War II general-purpose bomb unearthed in road widening project in Benguet

Sablan, Benguet - Explosive remnants of war persist in the Cordillera region.

On Tuesday, January 16, road workers at Sitio Banao, Kamog, Sablan, Benguet, uncovered another bomb, potentially dating back to World War II.

The unexploded ordnance is identified as a corroded general-purpose bomb, weighing 1,000 pounds and lacking a fin assembly.

Promptly, barangay officials notified the Sablan Municipal Police Station about the bomb's discovery.

Subsequently, the North Eastern Benguet Provincial EOD Canine Unit was informed for its safe retrieval.

The swift reporting was crucial, considering the potential danger posed by the unexploded bomb in the area.

Authorities emphasized that without proper handling, the bomb could inflict significant damage to both properties and residents.

Following an inspection by the Explosive Ordinance Demolition Technology (EODT), the bomb was transported to a temporary safe storage facility for secure keeping.

Ultimately, it is scheduled for disposal at the Igloo 10 Explosive Magazine, Kamikaze Firing Range, Clark Field, Pampanga.

This incident serves as a reminder to the public to promptly report any sightings of such ordnance to prevent undesirable events.

To recall, a similar type of bomb was unearthed in Baguio City in 2021 and in Caliking, Atok, in 2022. Additionally, eight vintage bombs were discovered in Mayoyao, Ifugao, on December 28 last year.

The recurring unearthing of such explosive remnants highlights the need for continued vigilance and cooperation in ensuring the safety of communities in the region.