The Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi has affirmed their support for the victims of the restaurant explosion that took place at Airport Road in Abu Dhabi on the morning of August 31.
In a statement provided to The Filipino Times, the Philippine Embassy stated that it would provide assistance to Filipinos who are in need, stating that there may be Filipinos who have been affected at the site.
“The Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi is monitoring developments and will extend every possible assistance. According to Amb. Quintana, there are Embassy personnel on site checking the area. Also, they have Embassy personnel coordinating with the police. Initial information reaching the Embassy is that there may be Filipinos working at the affected establishments but company management are not able to confirm as of this time,” said the statement.
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The explosion already claimed two lives, according to reports from authorities. One person who was at the site of the explosied immediately died, while another person died after a concrete block fell on him when he passed by the area.
However, the Philippine Embassy states that no details have been revealed yet as to the nationality or identity of the deceased victims.
Officials affirmed the public that all individuals who have sustained minor to medium injuries have all been taken to the nearest hospitals to get immediate medical treatment.
“The Embassy joins the Filipino community in UAE in hoping that there would be no further fatalities and that others involved in the incident would have no serious injuries. The Embassy is on the alert and ready to extend assistance,” concluded the statement.
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Abu Dhabi Police cordoned off the area to ensure the safety of residents and have already evacuated all those who live near the area.
“@ADPoliceHQ has evacuated all residents from the building safely with no injuries. Relevant teams are arranging temporary accommodation for residents until the building’s safety is assured,” said the tweet from the Abu Dhabi Government Media Office.
Earlier, residents living near the area state that a loud explosion sound and vibrations in their building woke them up and startled them.
The authorities dismissed other rumors surrounding the incident and reminded the public to always refer to official sources: “The relevant departments are dealing with the situation directly. We urge people to avoid spreading rumours, and to use official news sources.”
