A birthday gathering at a restaurant in the Philippines ended in chaos after a portable gas stove suddenly exploded at the dining table, leaving multiple students injured. The incident shocked diners and quickly drew attention online after footage of the explosion began circulating on social media.
Authorities confirmed that at least eleven students sustained injuries when the portable butane stove burst into flames during the celebration. The group had reportedly gathered after a school activity to celebrate one of their classmates’ birthdays.
The unexpected blast caused panic inside the restaurant as flames shot outward from the table, forcing nearby diners to scramble for safety.
Explosion Occurs During Birthday Song
The incident took place at a restaurant located in Barangay Caranglaan in Dagupan City. According to local reports, the students had just begun singing the traditional birthday song when the portable stove placed on their table suddenly exploded.
Witnesses described a sudden burst of fire that spread from the cooking appliance, catching those seated around the table off guard. The explosion triggered panic among the group and nearby diners, with several people rushing away from the table to avoid the flames.
Videos circulating online appear to show the moment immediately after the blast, with students hurriedly moving away from the scene while others attempted to assist the injured.
Preliminary findings suggested that a gas leak from the portable stove may have caused the explosion, although authorities have not yet confirmed the exact cause.
Several Students Hospitalised With Burn Injuries
Emergency responders transported all eleven injured students to nearby medical facilities for treatment. According to authorities, the victims suffered burn injuries after being caught close to the stove when it exploded.
Eight of the students were admitted to hospital for further medical care, while three others were treated and later discharged after receiving initial attention.
Two of the injured students reportedly sustained more serious burns and were scheduled to undergo surgery. Despite the severity of their injuries, officials indicated that their condition was not believed to be life-threatening.
Incidents involving portable gas cooking equipment have raised safety concerns in many parts of Asia, particularly in restaurants where tabletop stoves are commonly used for hotpot and grilled dishes.
Restaurant Owner Agrees to Pay Medical Expenses
Following the incident, police said the restaurant owner had agreed to cover the hospital expenses for the injured students. The establishment’s management also stated that this was the first time such an accident had occurred at their premises.
According to the restaurant, portable stoves used for cooking are typically inspected and cleaned as part of routine safety checks.
Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine what caused the explosion. Investigators are examining whether the appliance malfunctioned or whether a gas leak developed before the stove was used.
Officials have since reminded restaurant operators and diners to remain cautious when using portable gas-powered cooking equipment, particularly in enclosed dining environments where leaked gas could accumulate and pose a serious fire hazard.
The incident has sparked broader conversations about restaurant safety standards and the proper handling of portable gas appliances, which remain widely used across many dining establishments throughout the region.