Portable butane stove explosion injures 11 students at birthday gathering in Philippines

At least 11 students were injured after a portable butane stove exploded during a birthday gathering at a restaurant in Dagupan City, Philippines, on 12 March, with eight hospitalised and two requiring surgery, according to local media reports.

The incident occurred at a restaurant in Barangay Caranglaan, Dagupan City, Philippines, where the students had gathered following a school activity to celebrate a classmate’s birthday.

According to authorities, the group had begun singing “Happy Birthday” when the stove placed on their table suddenly exploded, sending flames towards nearby diners.

Police Captain Eric Dela Cruz, commander of Dagupan City Police Station 2, said a gas leak from the portable stove caused the explosion while the group was celebrating.

A video circulating online reportedly captured the moment of the blast, showing students scrambling away in panic as flames erupted.

Restaurant staff described the incident as sudden.

Romel Tumbaga, a restaurant employee, said the explosion caused panic among customers, who fled the area in fear.

Injuries and hospitalisation

All 11 injured students suffered burns and were taken to hospital for treatment.

Authorities said eight remained hospitalised, while three were discharged after receiving medical care.

Of those admitted, two sustained serious injuries and were scheduled to undergo surgery, although their condition was not considered critical.

Dela Cruz said the two students required operations but were not in critical condition.

Gas leak suspected as cause

Police said an apparent gas leak from the portable stove may have triggered the explosion, with some reports citing possible gas overpressure as a contributing factor.

Investigations are ongoing to determine the precise cause of the blast, including whether the stove malfunctioned or if a leak had developed prior to use.

Restaurant to cover medical expenses

Police said the restaurant owner has agreed to shoulder the hospital expenses of the injured students.

Dela Cruz said the restaurant owner had initially agreed to cover the medical costs of those injured.

Restaurant management stated that this was the first such incident at the establishment and that their equipment is regularly inspected and cleaned.

Tumbaga said the restaurant routinely checks and cleans its cooking equipment.