Eight people were reported injured in a fireworks factory explosion in Sitio Manggahan, Barangay Pulong Buhangin, Sta Maria, Bulacan on Thursday afternoon, Nov. 3.
In his report to Col. Relly B. Arnedo, Bulacan police director, Lt. Col. Christian Alucod, chief of Sta. Maria police, said four of the injured identified as Monrenzo and Marissa Victoria, operators of the fireworks factory; and Jessie Cruz and Lourdes Policarpio were all brought to Rogaciano Mercado Hospital.
The four other victims -- Teofila Horfilla, Mary Ann Horfilla, Amanda Vicente, all fireworks factory employees; and Christine Amper -- were all treated at a local health clinic.
Alucod said Manrenzo sustained third-degree burns all over his body.
The incident occurred at around 1:45 p.m. on Thursday.
Residents nearby said they heard three loud successive explosions followed by two more blasts that shook the ground.
"Nakakatakot talaga, ang lakas lakas unang tatlong pagsabog at pagyanig at nasundan pa ito ng dalawa pang pagsabog," (It’s really scary, the first three explosions and the shaking were so strong, followed by two more explosions)," they said.
Upon hearing the explosions, the students in the nearby Angel M. Del Rosario High School ducked for safety. Their classes were later suspended.
All the students and teachers were able to get out of the school safely, the police said.
The explosion shattered the windows and damaged the roofs and ceilings of some houses near the area, according to the report.
At the compound where the explosions occurred, materials for making fireworks were found scattered, indicating that the place is a fireworks factory. Structures in the place were also totally wrecked.
Based on the initial investigation of the police, the explosion occurred when the tip of one of the fireworks being made by two employees sparkled and was accidentally tossed.
The investigation also revealed that the pyrotechnics factory was operating illegally.
A week prior to the explosion, Col. Arnedo initiated a dialogue with members of the Philippine Pyrotechnics Manufacturers and Dealers Association of Bulacan to remind them of the importance of safety in manufacturing, distribution, sale, and use of firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices.
Appropriate criminal complaints will be prepared for filing in court against the operators of the fireworks factory, the police said.