BGC closes building linked to explosion

MANILA, Philippines - The Fort Bonifacio Development Corp. (FBDC), manager of the Bonifacio Global City (BGC) in Taguig City on Thursday said they are still conducting an investigation into Wednesday afternoon’s loud explosion that rocked the vicinity of Two Parkade building along 7th Avenue inside the BGC.

In a statement, FBDC head of commercial operations Manny Blas said police bomb experts have confirmed that the loud noise did not involve any explosive material. He added that there were also no injuries or property damage.

“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 Blas.

Although 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, the Southern Police District reported that a gas leakage along 7th Avenue was “completely repaired” as of 5:15 a.m. on Thursday.

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

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

"Hindi naman pagsabog, nagkaroon ng malakas na tunog. May nakarinig at nakitang umangat ang takip ng drainage system at nangamoy ng gas parang LPG,” said Asis.

Police said representatives of the Bonifacio Gas Corp. and BGC were also at the site to investigate the source of the LPG smell, he said.

The Bonifacio Gas Corp. when reached by the Star also would not confirm if the explosion was indeed caused by a gas leak.