Abandoned caskets bearing anti-China, anti-CPP-NPA messages found across Metro Manila

Police found five abandoned caskets containing anti-CPP-NPA and anti-China messages in different parts of Metro Manila early Friday.

According to the National Capital Region Police Office, the caskets were discovered in Sta. Cruz, Manila; Barangay 54, Caloocan City; Barangay South Triangle, Quezon City; Barangay Sta. Teresita, Quezon City; and along Gil Puyat Avenue, Makati City.

Initial investigations determined the caskets were intentionally abandoned by unidentified masked individuals who arrived in gray and white vans between 2 a.m. and 4 a.m.

In its press statement, the Quezon City Police District said responding police officers found crumpled pieces of paper inside the caskets with the messages, "Chinese Communist Party (CCP) greedy! Salot" and "Greedy salot."

Meanwhile, the Department of Foreign Affairs condemned the incident in its own statement: "The Department of Foreign Affairs does not condone acts or threats of violence against any individual, including foreign nationals or officials. Such irresponsible and disrespectful acts cannot be tolerated."

The department acknowledged the right to freedom of expression, but added the right "does not extend to threats of violence or acts that endanger the safety and security of others."

"Such actions do not reflect the Philippine government's approach to conducting its foreign relations, nor do they represent how Filipinos express criticism or dissatisfaction, even on sensitive political matters," the statement read. 

The DFA reiterated that it takes the government's obligation to uphold the safety and security of foreign nationals seriously.

Following the incident, Philippine National Police Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez ordered a comprehensive investigation into the incident. Investigators are currently reviewing surrounding CCTV footage to identify the suspects and trace the vehicles used.

The caskets are currently under police custody and are being examined. 

"This cowardly act will not be left unpunished," NCRPO wrote in a statement. "NCRPO will ensure that the identity of those who are behind these acts will be uncovered and criminal cases will be filed upon completion of the investigation. They consider these acts part of a deliberate effort to "attract attention, provoke public reaction, and possibly create unnecessary alarm."

Police units across Metro Manila have been ordered to heighten vigilance, while the QCPD has formed a Special Investigation Team to handle the case.

Authorities urged the public to stay calm, rely solely on officially verified information, and report activity or relevant information to the nearest police station, QC's E911 or the QC Helpline 122.