PNP confirms 14 people hurt in Quiapo blast

A total of 14 people were injured Friday night in Manila's Quiapo district explosion that police claimed was "a revenge attack" following a gang war that resulted in the mauling of a minor.

In a statement, Police Director Oscar Albayalde said Saturday that one of the 14 hurt was sent home immediately, five were released after they were given medical aid, while eight remained in hospital.

"The explosion was caused by an improvised pipe bomb. Initially, we gathered information that this started with the mauling of a minor by 3 individuals. The pipe bomb came as a revenge to the 3," Albayalde said.

Earlier, PNP Chief Roland "Bato" dela Rosa told reporters that a gang war took place around the area two days before Friday night's blast, with one party threatening the other that they will blow up the area to as revenge.

Also, Albayalde said that the area has been secured and cleared of any dangerous material by the PNP's explosive ordnance disposal unit.

He added that the incident was not connected to the ongoing 30th ASEAN Summit, the security of which was assured by Malacañang earlier on Saturday.

"The case is under investigation. Rest assured that the incident is not in any way connected or directed to the ongoing ASEAN Summit," Albayalde said. 

"Further, I assure that the region is safe and secured for our local and international delegates. Security measures are in place." —Rie Takumi/LBG, GMA News