DILG orders probe on Binondo electric posts collapse

Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benhur Abalos has ordered the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) to investigate the collapse of electric posts in Binondo, Manila.

“The DILG instructed BFP Chief Louie Puracan to immediately probe the incident... where several electric posts collapsed, hurting three individuals and damaging eight parked vehicles,” Abalos said in a statement released Thursday night.

He added that the BFP has been directed to coordinate with the concerned private electric company to give assistance to the affected individuals and help in the clearing operation.

In light of the incident, Abalos called on all local government units (LGUs) to inspect electric posts, construction sites, billboards, and other similar installations that may collapse during heavy rains.

“A memorandum circular will be issued regarding the matter to ensure compliance and prompt action,” he said.

Electric company Meralco said six new posts have been installed in the area but cables have yet to be set up, according to a report of Darlene Cay on GMA Integrated News’ Unang Balita on Friday.

The company is targeting to restore the power supply on Friday for five remaining establishments that still do not have power supply.

Meralco distribution services head Engineer Ariel Lucas said they are looking into the possibility that the weight of the cables or a truck snagging the wires caused the collapse of the posts.

The internet connection in the area was also affected. A telecommunication company is waiting for repairs to be finished before it can reconnect the affected cables.

Quintin Paredes Road is now passable. However, the road in front of Binondo church on a portion of Ongpin Street is still not passable.

At least three people were injured after the electric posts along Plaza Lorenzo Ruiz near the Binondo Church collapsed. Two of them rode an e-tricycle and another was a cyclist.

A 32-year-old man suffered a hematoma in both his arms and an abrasion.

A 21-year-old male got abrasions in his knee, finger, and elbow, and a 25-year-old female suffered pain in her knee and an abrasion.

The toppled posts hit eight vehicles, disrupted traffic, and also caused power outages in 15 establishments in the area. —Joviland Rita/ VAL, GMA Integrated News