19 people sent to hospital as drum of chlorine exploded in Talisay City, Cebu

At least 19 people were taken to hospital after a drum of chlorine exploded at a resort in Talisay City, Cebu, on Tuesday night, Mayor Gerald Anthony "Samsam" Gullas said.

Gullas said an initial report from the Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (LDRRMO) indicated that the incident occurred at a resort in Barangay Pooc.

"Based on preliminary information, around 19 individuals were brought to the hospital after inhaling hazardous gases caused by the incident," Gullas said through his official social media account.

He said that a drum of chlorine, a substance used extensively as a disinfectant in water purification, exploded. Victims reportedly complained of headache, burnt eyes, shortness of breath, and vomiting.

"Following this, I have directed the concerned City Hall departments and the local police to conduct a thorough investigation," Gullas added.

Further, he said that he instructed City Administrator, Atty. Rudelyn Navarro, to "issue a cease-and-desist order against the management of Alcoseba Resort" while awaiting the results of the investigation.

"Awhag lang nako sa mga residente nga gapuyo duol sa resort nga dili lang unta mopaduol sa maong dapit tungod sa ka-delikado niini," Gullas advised residents. 

(I urge residents who live close to the resort to avoid going there because it's dangerous.)

He lauded emergency responders - Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Talisay, BFP Region VII Hazmat [hazardous materials] team, DRRM personnel,  Barangay CFR, City of Talisay Traffic Operations and Development Authority, and Special Weapons and Tactic (SWAT) Team - for the prompt response. 

As of posting time, GMA Regional TV Balitang Bisdak is seeking a statement from the resort management on the incident. — GMA Regional TV