DOLE to probe Zambo firecracker depot blast that killed 5

MANILA – The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is set to investigate possible violations of occupational safety and health standards in a pyrotechnics warehouse following a massive explosion that killed five people in Zamboanga City on Saturday.

Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma said he directed the DOLE-Zamboanga Peninsula to probe the blast that also injured 38 others and left a large hole in the ground.

"I have given instruction to our DOLE regional director to immediately look into the incident and undertake an occupational health and safety investigation," he said in a phone interview on Sunday.

The operations of the firecracker warehouse in Barangay Tetuan will be suspended while the investigation is ongoing.

"The operation will be suspended to ensure the safety of the workers. It will only be lifted after needed safety measures have been put in place," Laguesma said.

He assured that assistance will be provided to the affected workers.

"If workers are displaced, temporary emergency employment can be provided," he added. (PNA)