A dangerous ammonia leak at an ice plant in Caloocan City, Metro Manila, left 10 people hospitalized and forced the evacuation of around 90 others on Sunday, authorities said.
The incident occurred at around 9:30 a.m. at the ice plant located along 4th Avenue, Barangay 2. The Caloocan City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) reported that the leak originated from a pipe in the plant's refrigeration system.
Emergency responders quickly cordoned off the area and evacuated residents and workers within a 100-meter radius. The 10 hospitalized individuals, including plant workers and nearby residents, were taken to local hospitals for treatment of respiratory distress and other symptoms related to ammonia exposure.
"We are thankful that the leak was contained before it could spread further," said CDRRMO chief Mark Abenojar. "Our teams, along with the Bureau of Fire Protection, worked swiftly to stop the leak and ensure the safety of the community."
By noon, the leak had been sealed, and authorities allowed most evacuees to return to their homes. Investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause of the pipe failure. Plant management has been ordered to conduct a full safety audit before resuming operations.