PHILIPPINES – Ammonia Leak at Ice Plant Prompts Evacuations

An ammonia leak at an ice manufacturing facility in Barangay 169, Caloocan City early Wednesday, April 29, resulted in evacuations, hospitalisations, and temporary road closures.

The incident occurred at the Deparo Cristal ice plant on Deparo Street and was reported to authorities at approximately 3:30 a.m., according to the Northern Police District. As fumes spread through the surrounding area, personnel from the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) immediately evacuated nearby residents.

Emergency responders provided on-site medical assistance to several affected individuals, including a five-year-old boy and a 36-year-old man who required oxygen. In total, 13 people were hospitalised, with 11 residents transported to nearby medical facilities. No fatalities were reported.

Fire officials confirmed that the source of the leak was brought under control by around 7:40 a.m. Crews used industrial exhaust fans to remove ammonia from the building and conducted ventilation procedures to disperse any remaining gas.

During the height of the incident, authorities issued a traffic advisory and temporarily closed portions of the area to motorists. By 10 a.m., Deparo Road had been reopened and declared passable.

Mayor Along Malapitan advised residents in the vicinity to wear face masks while outdoors as a precaution until the smell fully dissipates. Authorities continue to monitor the site to ensure the facility remains secure.

Photo credit: Caloocan PIO. All rights reserved.