Picture courtesy of Manila Bulletin

 

In a startling discovery, construction workers at the University of the Philippines College of Medicine in Ermita, Manila, unearthed three vintage explosives believed to date back to World War II. The incident, reported by the Manila Police District on Tuesday, occurred the day before on 8th July.

 

The find comprised two aerial bombs and a hand grenade, likely remnants from the intense battles that raged through Manila in 1945 as Allied forces advanced to liberate the city from Japanese occupation. This historic backdrop paints a vivid picture of a time when the university, particularly the Philippine General Hospital established in 1907, operated at the heart of wartime Manila, enduring significant damage.

 

Upon discovery, the Manila Police District's Explosive Ordnance Disposal and K9 Unit swiftly intervened, securing the site and safely retrieving the explosives. This prompt response ensured the safety of both workers and the surrounding community, as construction activities momentarily halted to accommodate the emergency procedures.

 

Given the nature of the discovery, sections of the construction site were temporarily sealed off to allow police specialists to methodically search for other potential unexploded ordnance. Thankfully, no additional threats were identified during the sweep.

 

Historical construction sites, particularly in regions with rich wartime histories, often reveal such dangerous souvenirs, underscoring the need for vigilance. Authorities have reiterated the importance of reporting any suspicious metallic objects encountered—especially within construction zones—to avert potential dangers.

 

This incident serves as a striking reminder of Manila's wartime history and the lasting impact of conflict on urban environments. Safety protocols remain paramount, as authorities continue to urge the public to report any unusual finds immediately. Meanwhile, the construction project will resume with heightened awareness of its historically significant setting.

 

For those curious about wartime relics or involved in construction activities, this event accentuates both the intrigue and the caution required when navigating areas woven with historical threads. It’s a unique intersection of Manila’s vibrant present and its tumultuous past, offering a poignant narrative that echoes beyond mere bricks and mortar.

 

As the story unfolds, it remains a powerful illustration of how history, even buried for decades, continues to shape our modern landscape and collective memory.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Manila Bulletin 2025-07-09

 

 

Artillery shells not aerial bombs. The hand lettered sign accurately identifies them. The projectiles shown have driving bands with rifling marks.