Tear gas downs 15 in Pasig

MANILA, Philippines - At least 15 people were hospitalized after inhaling tear gas when its canister was run over by a passenger jeepney in Pasig City yesterday.

Police officers are searching for the persons who dropped the tear gas canister in front of a car wash at the corner of Pasig Boulevard and Arayat street in Barangay Bagong Ilog at around 10:30 a.m., Pasig police chief Senior Superintendent Mario Rariza said.

Rariza said they are verifying reports that the tear gas canister was accidentally dropped by occupants of a passing motorcycle.

Witnesses said the canister was in the middle of the road when it was run over by a passenger jeepney. It exploded and the tear gas it contained quickly spread in a 15-meter radius, according to the car wash workers.

The victims, who complained they had difficulty breathing, were rushed to the Rizal Medical Center for treatment.

Rescue worker Rodwick Velasote said the victims were released from the hospital after their condition stabilized.