MANILA, Philippines - An improvised bomb exploded in Davao City before noon Wednesday, injuring a soldier and a militiaman.

Lt. Col. Medel Aguilar, spokesman of the Army’s 10th Infantry Division, said New People’s Army rebels detonated the bomb to prevent the soldiers from stopping their activities.

He said 10th ID forces were deployed to Mapula, Paquibato after getting reports from anxious residents about the presence of NPA rebels in the area.

Aguilar said the soldiers were attacked at the vicinity of Sitio Quiambao in Mapula village at 11:10 a.m., resulting in the wounding of an Army soldier and a government militiaman. The 2 are being treated at a military hospital in the city.

Aguilar condemned the NPA's incessant use of improvised explosive devices.

“Past and recent incidents showed that IEDs have only caused unnecessary pain and suffering to its victims, may they be soldiers or civilians. Apparently, loss of lives and limbs is acceptable for the CPP/NPA leaders who greedily seek for political power,” he said.