Philippines: Thousands evacuate after chemical spill

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Source: CCTV.com | 11-28-2006 16:45

In the northern Philippines, at least 20 residents of a town have been hospitalized, and three thousand others fled their homes, after a noxious, unknown chemical was dumped near a river.

Residents of Marilao, 25 kilometers north of capital Manila, complained of dizziness and vomiting due to an odor from the chemical-laced river. They left their homes before dawn today (Tuesday), unable to stand the smell. Officials say three thousand people have sought shelter in village and municipal halls.

Residents say they saw a van use a hose to dump a liquid substance in a creek near the river before rushing away. The oily substance also contaminated a nearby farm and river.

 

Editor:Ji Xuewen