2 killed in Dagupan explosion on Christmas Day
MANILA, Philippines (Updated 3:45 p.m.) — Two individuals were killed by a loud explosion that occurred behind a fireworks shop in Dagupan City on Christmas Day.
According to the Dagupan City government, residents from Sitio Boquig, Barangay Bacayao Norte reported the explosion at around 7:49 p.m. on Thursday, December 25, prompting an immediate response from the Bureau of Fire Protection and local law enforcement.
The latest report showed that two people were killed in the explosion — a female child and a 21-year-old man — both of whom were declared dead on arrival at the hospital. Four others sustained minor injuries.
Authorities have initially traced the explosion to a small, makeshift illegal firecracker factory that also caught fire. The blast sent debris and chemicals from the shop into the area, resulting in deaths and injuries.
Dagupan City Mayor Belen Fernandez visited the site to assess the situation, saying the tragedy should not have happened and reiterating that the unsafe use of fireworks must be avoided.
"Walang kasiyahan ang paputok kung kapalit ay buhay ng tao. Paiigtingin natin ang pagpapatupad ng batas. Walang kompromiso sa kaligtasan ng bawat Dagupeño," he said in a statement.
(There is no joy in fireworks if they cost human lives. We will intensify the enforcement of the law. There will be no compromise when it comes to the safety of every Dagupeño.)
The Dagupan City Police are still investigating the exact cause of the blast, including a review of the firework shop’s inventory and chemicals, as well as an assessment of the total damage.
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.
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