Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) personnel conduct artificial ventilation operations at the site of an ammonia leak in an ice plant in Barangay 168, Deparo, Caloocan City on Wednesday morning, April 29, as part of ongoing efforts to disperse hazardous fumes and ensure public safety. (Photo courtesy of Caloocan PIO)
A chemical leak from an ice plant in Barangay 168, Deparo, Caloocan City on Wednesday morning, April 29, prompted the evacuation of nearby residents and sent at least 10 people to hospitals due to breathing difficulties.
Authorities said residents in the area reported a foul odor past 4 a.m., prompting an immediate response from the Caloocan Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and barangay personnel, who carried out initial containment and safety measures.
Personnel from BFP Caloocan, led by Fire Supt. Jacky L. Ngina and supported by responding units, proceeded to the area and implemented containment operations. These included closing valves, shutting down electrical sources, and deploying ventilation equipment to control the spread of ammonia fumes.
The leak was traced to a valve in the facility, which was immediately shut off.
Initial reports showed that eight residents were brought to the Dr. Jose N. Rodriguez Memorial Hospital and Sanitarium, while two others were rushed by the BFP after experiencing difficulty in breathing linked to chemical exposure.
Authorities confirmed that no fatalities were reported.
As of 10:20 a.m., artificial ventilation operations were conducted by CDRRMO and BFP personnel to further disperse residual fumes in the area.
Additional exhaust fans were also installed to support ongoing ventilation efforts.
Caloocan City Mayor Dale Gonzalo “Along” Malapitan ordered residents and motorists to avoid affected routes, including the stretch from BF Phase 2 to Deparo Intersection and from Puregold Intersection to Deparo Intersection, while also advising the public to wear face masks as a precaution.
Traffic and health advisories were issued as emergency response operations continued.
By 10 a.m., Deparo Road was declared passable, although monitoring remained in place.
Residents in nearby communities were advised to stay indoors, keep doors and windows closed, and wear face masks when necessary, while those experiencing dizziness, nausea, or difficulty in breathing were urged to seek immediate medical attention.
City disaster response teams remained deployed on-site as authorities continued air quality monitoring and safety operations.
For public assistance and emergencies, residents may contact the Caloocan City Emergency Hotlines at (02) 888-25664, 0908-81-25664, or 0998-51-25664.