Bacolod 76th Charter Day rites fireworks hurt eight people

BACOLOD CITY, Philippines – Eight people, including four minors, were hurt after a firecracker exploded on the ground before it could shoot up in the air during the countdown to the city’s 76th Charter Day anniversary held at the city’s Public Plaza, Sunday noon.

Police identified the injured as Vivian Villarin, 21; Rogelio Espartero, 46, and 14-year-old son, and the Selarde couple Roberto, 36, and Analyn, 34, and their children, ages 16, 12 and 11. They were brought to the Corazon Locsin Montelibano Memorial Regional Hospital.

According to witnesses, the revelers scampered to safety after a firecracker flew towards the crowd and on the stage of the plaza.

The organizers immediately called off the fireworks display, which was supposed to last for 11 minutes, to avoid further accident.

The countdown ceremonies, led by Mayor Monico Puentevella, were simultaneously held at the Government Center and at the Lacson Tourism Strip.