Toppled electric posts cause damage, heavy traffic in Binondo

Several electric posts fell on the streets of Binondo, Manila, on Thursday afternoon, according to Isa Umali's report on Super Radyo dzBB.

The incident occurred along Plaza Lorenzo Ruiz near the Binondo Church, causing a power outage for 15 establishments in the area. The toppled posts hit some vehicles and disrupted traffic in the area.

At least three people were injured. 

A 32-year-old man suffered a hematoma in both his arms and an abrasion.

A 21-year-old male got abrasions in his knee, finger, and elbow, and a 25-year-old female suffered pain in her knee and an abrasion.

Raffy Tima reported on ''24 Oras'' that two of them rode an e-tricycle and another was a cyclist.

Plaza Lorenzo Ruiz has been temporarily closed to vehicular traffic, the Manila Traffic and Parking Bureau said. 

Meralco said they are investigating the incident and what caused the posts to fall. 

"Kasalukuyan kaming nakikipag-ugnayan sa mga awtoridad at nagsasagawa ng imbestigasyon para matukoy ang naging sanhi ng insidente," said Meralco spokesperson Joe Zaldarriaga. 

(We are coordinating with authorities and investigating what caused the incident.)

"Inaasikaso na rin ng Meralco ang mga nadamay at naapektuhan ng insidente partikular sa aspeto ng property damage. Humihingi ako ng pag-unawa at pasensya sa abalang naidulot ng insidenteng ito," he added.

(Meralco is also working on how to help those who were affected, particularly in the aspect of property damage. We ask for understanding for the inconvenience caused by this incident.) 

Meanwhile, the Binondo Church, also known as the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz, canceled its 5 p.m. Mass on Thursday following the incident.  —Sherylin Untalan/ VAL/VBL, GMA Integrated News