The two people who died in a gas explosion in Abu Dhabi on Monday were from the Philippines, the country's embassy said. Abu Dhabi authorities said the explosion, caused by a gas leak at a fast food restaurant on Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Road, killed two people and injured others. On Tuesday, the Philippines embassy in the UAE confirmed "with deep sadness" that the two deceased were its citizens. It said ambassador Hjayceelyn Quintana contacted the families of the two people to express condolences and assure them that they would be given "all necessary assistance". The embassy is working with local authorities to track down some injured Filipinos, who were taken to a hospital to be treated for minor and moderate injuries. The embassy said it would give them support. The explosion happened about 10.15am on Monday, destroying a KFC, neighbouring Hardee's and other shops near by. Authorities rushed to the site, evacuated the area and diverted traffic. The typically busy street, also known as Airport Road, was closed until 6.30pm while clean-up operations were under way. Civil Defence asked around the area for anyone who was injured so they could be taken to hospital. Investigations showed the explosion was caused by a misalignment in the gas container fittings after the residential building was refuelled. Police reminded the public to be careful when dealing with gas connections and other energy sources.
