DAVAO CITY — Authorities safely recovered 23 pieces of unexploded explosive ordnance (UXO) believed to be World War II–era Japanese Navy bombs during a prompt and carefully coordinated operation in Purok Balite, Barangay Buhangin, on January 24, 2026.
The recovery was conducted by personnel of the 3rd Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Platoon, 2nd EOD Company, EOD Battalion, Support Command, Philippine Army, led by Master Sergeant Jonhmar M. Sudio and Sergeant Ryan B. Vilando, in close coordination with AFP K9, Task Force Davao, and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Region XI.
A technical inspection identified the recovered items as Type 99, No. 3, Mark 3 bombs of Japanese Navy origin, each weighing approximately 32 kilograms. Although considered vintage munitions, authorities stressed that the explosives were already in a deteriorating state, significantly increasing the risk of accidental detonation and posing a serious threat to nearby residents, properties, and the surrounding environment.
Following the discovery, the EOD team immediately secured the area and implemented strict safety protocols to prevent harm to civilians. The ordnance was then carefully retrieved and rendered safe through precise and disciplined procedures, underscoring the high level of expertise of the responding EOD personnel.
Military officials said the swift and safe UXO recovery reflects the core mission of the EOD Battalion—to protect lives and safeguard communities from explosive hazards, including remnants of past conflicts that continue to endanger the public decades later. The operation also highlighted the importance of sustained inter-agency collaboration among the Armed Forces of the Philippines, law enforcement units, and other stakeholders in maintaining peace, safety, and community resilience.
Authorities reminded the public to immediately report any suspected explosive items and to avoid handling or approaching such objects, emphasizing that even old munitions can remain deadly.