Taguig blast linked to gas leak

MANILA, Philippines - A gas leak in Bonifacio Global City (BGC) in Taguig that caused an explosion Wednesday night was “completely repaired” before dawn yesterday, according to the Southern Police District (SPD).

The Fort Bonifacio Development Corp. (FBDC), which managed the BGC, said they are still investigating what caused the explosion that rocked the vicinity of Two Parkade building along 7th Avenue.

“We are thoroughly investigating the source and cause of the loud noise, including the role, if any, of a gas leak. In the meantime, to take the side of extra caution, we are temporarily closing Two Parkade until further notice,” said FBDC head of commercial operations Manny Blas.

The FBDC has yet to confirm that the loud explosion was caused by a gas leak under the storm drains connected to the Two Parkade building.

Taguig City police chief Senior Superintendent Arthur Asis earlier said the incident occurred at about 4:30 p.m. Wednesday.

Asis said the loud explosion sound came from the street drainage system. He added that there was also a strong smell of liquefied petroleum gas that followed the explosion.

Police said representatives of the Bonifacio Gas Corp. and BGC were also at the site to investigate the source of the smell, he said. The gas firm, when reached by The STAR, would not confirm if the explosion was indeed caused by a gas leak.