Justice department clears Ayala firm, fire officials in Glorietta blast probe (2:00 p.m.)
MANILA - The Department of Justice recommended the filing of criminal charges against engineers and foremen in connection with the explosion that rocked Glorietta 2 Mall, Ayala Center, Makati City, last October 19.
In the same decision, the Justice office cleared fire department and Ayala Properties Management Corporation officials and employees of any responsibility.
It said the explosion that killed 11 people and injured more than 100 could have been prevented if personnel had conducted safety checks at the mall.
Its “Task Force Glorietta” said charges of reckless imprudence resulting in homicide and multiple physical injuries will be filed against Candelario Valdueza, project engineer of the Makati Supermarket Corp.; operations manager Clifford Ariola of Marchem Industrial Sales and Services; Marchem supervisor Joselito Buenaventura; and maintenance personnel Charlie Nepomuceno, Jonathan Ibuna and Juan Ricafort.
Operations manager Ricardo Cruz of Metalline Enterprises and foreman Miguel Velasco Jr. will also be facing the same charges.
The Ayala Properties Management Corporation employees and officials of the Bureau of Fire Protection were cleared. (Sunnex)
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