Army to extend aid to armory blast victims

MANILA, Philippines - The chief of the Philippine Army on Friday assured the victims of the recent explosion inside the Army camp of all possible assistance.

Army commander Lt. Gen. Hernando Iriberri made the pledge as he visited victims confined at the AFP Medical Center in Quezon City and Army General Hospital in Taguig City.

"Their welfare and immediate recovery is the primary concern of the Philippine Army," the military official said.

A total of 32 people, including fire volunteers and military personnel, were hurt in the fire followed by explosions at the Explosive and Ordnance Division building inside the Army headquarters last Wednesday.

Twenty of the victims have been released from the Army hospital.

Arson investigators are still determining the cause of the fire.