Unearthed Hand Grenade Prompts Safety Measures in Antipolo City Subdivision

ANTIPOLO CITY: A construction team in Victoria Valley Subdivision in Antipolo City discovered an old hand grenade on Friday, causing a security concern. The grenade was found while workers were preparing to lay the foundations for a new house.

According to Philippines News Agency, the security officer-in-charge of the subdivision, the grenade was initially moved to the homeowners’ association office, leading to alarm among residents. Gonzales reported that the police were quickly contacted to handle the potentially live explosive. The grenade was identified as an MK-2 fragmentation grenade, also known as a “pineapple grenade,” a type extensively used by the United States forces and its allies during the 20th century.

Police Master Sgt. Rudy Saballero, leading the Explosive Ordnance Disposal team, emphasized the importance of proper protocol in handling old munitions. He instructed subdivision authorities to advise construction workers to avoid handling such devices if found. Saballero stated, “There have been numerous cases where vintage grenades, mortar shells, and bombs have exploded due to improper handling. The safest course of action is to leave them undisturbed and report them to the police for safe removal.”

Additionally, Saballero advised the subdivision officials to conduct a comprehensive search of the site where the grenade was found, as these items are often part of larger hidden caches of munitions.

The bomb experts safely secured the unexploded grenade in a sand-filled container and transported it out of the neighborhood, ensuring the safety of the residents and workers in the area.