By Benjamin Cuaresma

MANILA — In an accidental discovery, a construction worker operating his machine near Muralla corner Anda Street, opposite Security Bank in Intramuros, stumbled upon a vintage World War II mortar bomb.

On Friday, July 14, 2023, at approximately 4 PM, Gilbert Badilla, a 33-year-old single resident of 064 Degalecia Maysan Street in Valenzuela City, uncovered the historic bomb during excavation work.

Upon receiving the information, the Manila Police District Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit promptly dispatched a team to the area.

The rusty unexploded mortar shells are believed to be remnants from the Second World War, serving as a chilling reminder of the city’s wartime past.

The EOD team swiftly secured the bomb and will ensure its safekeeping and proper disposal. (Photographs courtesy of the Manila Police District) AI/MNM