Palace urges Pinoys in NY to ‘remain vigilant’ after blast

DAVAO CITY, Philippines—Malacañang on Sunday advised Filipinos in New York “to remain calm and vigilant” after an explosion in the crowded Chelsea neighborhood.

“We are deeply saddened by the New York explosion that left scores injured in Chelsea district,” Communications Secretary Martin Andanar said in a statement.

READ: New York blast ‘intentional’ but no terror link at this point

Andanar said the Philippine Consulate General in New York was closely monitoring the situation.

“As authorities begin to investigate, the Philippine Consulate General in New York continues to monitor the situation closely,” he said.

New York City is home to thousands of Filipino migrants and overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).

“We advise Filipinos living in the area to remain calm and vigilant as we wait for further developments,” Andanar said.

New York authorities said at least 29 people were injured in the explosion while the cause of the blast remains unknown. RAM/rga

READ: 25 hurt in possible blast in New York – fire department