Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 3) — The collapsed power poles that caused minor injuries to three people in Binondo, Manila are now cleared off the streets as of Thursday evening, authorities said.
As of 7:20 p.m., Plaza San Lorenzo Ruiz in Binondo, Manila is now passable, the Manila Public Information Office said. Portions of Ongpin and Quintin Paredes streets near the public square and Binondo Church had to be closed temporarily following the collapse of the poles hours earlier.
The Manila PIO added that the three victims are currently being treated in the hospital as local authorities continue to inspect the incident site.
The Manila Electric Company (Meralco) said no service was affected but power was shut off for the safety of the responders and residents in the area.
According to Meralco and Manila PIO, the eight poles supporting power and telecom lines fell at around 12:41 p.m. Thursday, hitting several vehicles.
Meralco corporate communications head Joe Zaldarriaga on Friday said the posts have been replaced, restoration works have been completed, and service has been restored to customers affected by the power shutoff.
He said investigation into the incident is ongoing.
“Muli, humihingi ako ng pag-unawa at pasensya sa abalang naidulot ng insidenteng ito,” he added.
[Translation: Again, I ask for your understanding and patience for the inconvenience this incident has caused.]
Meanwhile, Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos urged all local government units to inspect power poles, construction sites, billboards, and other similar installations that “may fall off during heavy rains to avoid similar incidents from happening again.”
