Smoke billows from the Resorts World building in Pasay City, Metro Manila, Philippines June 2, 2017. REUTERS/Erik De Castro

 

Update [12:50 PM PST]: Washington, June 1, 2017 (AFP) -US President Donald Trump Thursday expressed sadness and sympathy for victims of what he labelled a "terrorist attack" at a casino in the Philippines capital Manila.

"We're closely monitoring the situation," Trump said in response to the gunfire attack, which was quickly claimed by Daesh.

"But it is really very sad as to what is going on throughout the world with terror. Our thoughts and our prayers are with all of those affected."

Update [12:30 PM PST, Friday]: Military spokesman Restituto Padilla said the police were in control of the situation and the army was monitoring closely.

Policemen stand guard near evacuated employees of a hotel near a situation at a Resorts World building, in Pasay City, Metro Manila, Philippines June 2, 2017. REUTERS/Erik De Castro

 

Original reporting [11:45 PM PST, Thursday]: MANILA: Gunshots and explosions rang out from an entertainment resort in the Philippine capital Manila early on Friday and local media reported armed men were inside the complex.

The company mentioned that it is currently working with the local police to offer the best possible security to the visitors.

Resorts World Manila said on social media it was on lockdown and the local fire department said a blaze was burning on the second floor of the building.

"We ask for your prayers during these difficult times," Resorts World said on Twitter.

Witnesses who spoke to radio stations said several gunmen were seen in the complex. News channel ANC said there were two gunmen, wearing masks and black clothes.

The information could not be immediately verified.

Smoke billows from the Resorts World building in Pasay City, Metro Manila, Philippines June 2, 2017. REUTERS/Erik De Castro

 

Pictures circulated on social media of the resort, close to the city's airport, showing plumes of smoke pouring from a building.

A source at one of the resorts told Reuters that employees were being evacuated and declined to give more details.

?This is a developing story and will be updated as details are made available.