'explosion' in Manila: updated

UPDATE Wednesday, Oct.24,2007:

The New York Times is reporting AP saying that the explosion was most likely a gas leak of some sort, and probably not from a bomb, as no residue or IED shrapnel was recovered at the Mall.
read the NY Times Reprt online here

Associated Press is reporting some type of explosion, most likely from a bomb blast according to President GMA, has occurred at the Glorietta Shopping Mall in Makati, the heart of Manila's financial district.

AP also reports at least 8 people are dead and 130 wounded.

I arrive in Manila next month, and will stay about 20 minutes away (as I always have) from the Financial District/Makati - matter of fact I've never stayed anywhere near Makati for obvious reasons, although a friend of mine from New York has just arrived in Makati a few days ago, despite my recommendations to him about staying elsewhere in Metro Manila.

Ken, if you're reading this please contact me asap to let me know you're OK.

read the full AP News Report here

UPDATE: Oct.21, 2007
People's Daily Online in China is reporting the Australian government has warned its citizens not to travel to the Philippines unless necessary, as the country could face more terror attacks.

In an advisory posted by the Australian embassy, Canberra said possibility that Friday's bombing was staged by terrorists could not be discounted, as reliable intelligence reports said terrorists plan to stage attacks in several Philippine cities.

read their report here

Thanks for reading today,
PJAMES