Car explodes on EDSA; 3 hurt

Three people were injured when a Nissan Patrol SUV exploded and burst into flames while cruising the southbound lane of EDSA near the SM City in Quezon City shortly before noon yesterday.

Initial police and radio reports identified the victims as Adelfa Aguirre, her daughter Pamela, and Patrick Dy. They were rushed to the Capitol Medical Center for treatment.

Another passenger, Peterson Aguirre, was unhurt but was in a state of shock when pulled out from the car by the rescue team and fire men who arrived at the scene minutes after the incident.

Reports said the Nissan Patrol, with license plate number XYJ-625, was cruising the innermost lane of EDSA when it suddely exploded and burst into flames.

Police and fire investigators recovered hand guns and charred peso bills scattered inside the vehicle.

The guns and the money belonged to the Aguirres who are said to be in the petroleum business in Karuhatan, Valenzuela.

The Philippine National Police (PNP), however, ruled out terrorism and destabilization in the explosion.

PNP spokesman Chief Superintendent Leopoldo Bataoil said the blast was definitely not part of destabilization moves nor a terrorist plot.

PNP chief Director General Arturo Lomibao visited to the crime scene to personally assess the situation.

Central Police District (CPD) investigator PO2 Harold Melgar said the Explosives Ordnance Division has taken over the investigation to determine what kind of explosive exploded inside the vehicle. — With Cecille Suerte Felipe