Marikina city: The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has initiated a probe into the explosion at a gun manufacturing company located in Barangay Fortune, Marikina City. The incident, which occurred on Monday, resulted in the death of two workers and left another injured.

According to Philippines News Agency, DOLE Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma has tasked the DOLE-NCR (National Capital Region) with the investigation to provide assistance to the affected workers and develop recommendations to prevent future incidents. "The health and safety of all workers are first and foremost the serious concern of the DOLE, particularly in companies where the hazards and risks to workers' life are high," Laguesma stated in a telephone interview.

Laguesma indicated that a Work Stoppage Order might be considered against the facility, contingent upon the investigation's findings. "That will be part of the action that can be taken by the DOLE-NCR, if warranted," he added.

Initial findings by the Marikina City Police pointed out that the explosion was triggered by a box containing primer that detonated unexpectedly inside the factory.