Chemical spill disrupts classes at Manila university

MANILA, Philippines — A 20-foot shipping container van that held 20 tons of chemicals spilled along Legarda Avenue yesterday, disrupting classes at the Arellano University in Manila after students and employees feared it might explode.

As of press time, no untoward incident happened as authorities cleared the drums that contained chemicals supposedly for the manufacture of foam, which spilled after the container was separated from the truck before dawn yesterday.

The driver supposedly lost control of the truck, which hit a parked L300 van.

Workers had to wear gas masks to protect themselves from the chemical fumes.

According to the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority traffic inspector Jose Poliarco, the van was bound for Taytay, Rizal when the driver lost control. The driver may face charges of reckless imprudence resulting in damage to property.

Arson investigator Senior Fire Officer 3 Sonny Lacuban yesterday said the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) is also on standby because the spilled chemicals are flammable.

Mayor Joseph Estrada cancelled classes and work at the university as recommended by the Manila Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office and the BFP.