Brick oven carbon monoxide leak sickens 22 in Makati
Published May 19, 2026 04:34 pm
Twenty-two individuals experienced dizziness and difficulty breathing after a carbon monoxide leak inside a building in Barangay Bel-Air, Makati City on Monday, May 18, which allegedly originated from a brick oven.
BFP–Makati City personnel respond to individuals affected by a chemical leak in Makati City. (Photos from BFP NCR-Makati City/Facebook)
BFP–Makati City personnel respond to individuals affected by a chemical leak in Makati City. (Photos from BFP NCR-Makati City/Facebook)
BFP–Makati City personnel respond to individuals affected by a chemical leak in Makati City. (Photos from BFP NCR-Makati City/Facebook)
The Bureau of Fire Protection–Makati City told the Manila Bulletin that six of the affected individuals were classified as being in severe condition. They were immediately transported to the hospital for treatment.
Meanwhile, nine individuals were under observation, while seven were in minor condition.
The BFP–Makati City said its personnel immediately responded after the report was received at around 3:17 p.m. and conducted air monitoring and chemical detection procedures in the area.
Based on the BFP's ocular inspection, burn patterns were observed in a brick oven, as evidenced by ashes, debris, and the heat temperature of the oven, which was identified as the probable source of ignition and the alleged carbon monoxide leak.
“Carbon Monoxide (CO) is a byproduct of incomplete combustion. In a brick oven, this can happen due to insufficient oxygen supply, poor ventilation, or incomplete fuel burning (wood, gas, etc.),” BFP-Makati explained.
Authorities said that prior to the incident, kitchen training was being conducted. The building’s property manager said that around 2 to 2:30 p.m., the brick oven was fired up and the exhaust fan was not turned on.
“The exhaust fan wasn't turned on, and they didn't inform management about the demo activity,” they added.
Around 3 p.m., a woman suddenly fainted, which was initially thought to be due to another cause. However, when another person fainted, they alerted authorities and called for assistance. Witnesses said the smell inside was like butane or burning wood and was irritating to the eyes.
Responding teams conducted safety checks and air monitoring in coordination with building management to ensure safety and prevent further risks.
Operations were completed at around 6:57 p.m. after the area was secured.
On Tuesday afternoon, May 19, BFP–Makati said the hospitalized individuals had already been discharged.