Gunfire and explosions heard at tourist complex in PhilippinesJune 1, 2017 - 23:10 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - There have been reports of gunfire and explosions at a tourist complex in the Philippines. Police and Swat teams were deployed to Resorts World Manila at about 01:30 local time (17:30 GMT), CNN Philippines reports citing BBC News. Staff at one hotel told the outlet a masked gunman was on the second floor, firing at guests. The Philippines Fire Protection Bureau confirmed reports of a fire in the same area. News site Rappler.com is reporting that several people have been wounded. The complex wrote on Twitter: "Resorts World Manila is currently on lockdown following reports of gunfire from unidentified men. "The Company is working closely with the Philippine National Police to ensure that all guests and employees are safe. "We ask for your prayers during these difficult times." A spokesman for the Philippines' Army has said police are in control of the situation, and the military is monitoring it closely. No group has yet said it was behind the incident. Resorts World Manila features multiple hotels and bars, as well as a casino, shopping centre and cinema. Pictures have emerged on social media which show plumes of smoke pouring from one building. A source at the scene told Reuters that an evacuation was under way. The US state department has tweeted a warning to citizens, stating: "Reports of explosions/gunfire at Resorts World Manila, near the Manila Intl Airport. Avoid area & monitor local news." It advised people to "check in with family/friends on social media to let them know you are safe". The incident comes as the Philippines army is fighting militants linked to the so-called Islamic State group for control of the city of Marawi on the southern island of Mindanao. Photo: Getty Images Top stories Authorities said a total of 192 Azerbaijani troops were killed and 511 were wounded during Azerbaijan’s offensive. In 2023, the Azerbaijani government will increase the country’s defense budget by more than 1.1 billion manats ($650 million). The bill, published on Monday, is designed to "eliminate the shortcomings of an unreasonably broad interpretation of the key concept of "compatriot". The earthquake caused a temporary blackout, damaged many buildings and closed a number of rural roads. Partner news | Scholz hopes Armenia-Azerbaijan peace treaty will be signed this year German Chancellor Olaf Scholz hopes that a peace treaty between Armenia and Azerbaijan will be signed this year. Ucom equips four bus stops in Ijevan with free Wi-Fi Ucom now provides free Wi-Fi coverage in smart bus stops in four communities of Ijevan. Armenia, Russia discuss life extension of Metsamor nuclear plant Issues regarding the extension of life of the 2nd power unit of the Armenian Nuclear Power Plant were discussed in Yerevan. Armenians stage more campaigns against territorial concessions to Azerbaijan Protesters blocked more roads across Armenia on Friday, April 26 in continuing attempts to scuttle territorial concessions to Azerbaijan. |