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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider Metro Manila devider Suspects in deadly Valenzuela blast nabbed

Suspects in deadly Valenzuela blast nabbed

Published Sep 26, 2025 05:48 pm
Handcuffs (File photo)
Handcuffs (File photo)
The Northern Police District (NPD) confirmed the arrest of individuals allegedly responsible for the deadly explosion in Barangay Marulas, Valenzuela City, that killed four children and injured eight others on Sept. 24.
In a statement Friday, Sept. 26, the NPD said police operatives arrested the suspected owner of the firecrackers and the owners of the house where the explosives had been illegally stored. 
Authorities noted that the storage was done without permits or safety measures, a violation of Republic Act 7183, or the law regulating firecrackers and pyrotechnics.
The blast occurred inside a house on Pisces Street in Batimana Compound, where responding officers found strong pyrotechnic odors and scattered remnants of firecrackers.
The victims included twin seven-year-old girls, a 13-year-old girl, and a two-year-old boy. Among the injured were adult men and women and four minor children aged nine, seven, and five.
The tragedy has revived calls for stricter implementation of firecracker regulations, with safety advocates pushing for tighter monitoring, heavier penalties, and stronger public awareness campaigns.
Valenzuela City Mayor Weslie “Wes” Gatchalian presided over an inter-agency meeting with the NPD, Bureau of Fire Protection, City Legal Office, and other offices to identify accountability and preventive measures.
Meanwhile, NPD said that the Sub-Station 3 commander has been administratively relieved pending further inquiry into possible lapses in oversight.
The arrested suspects will face charges of reckless imprudence resulting in multiple homicide, multiple physical injuries, and damage to property under Article 365 of the Revised Penal Code, along with violations of Republic Act 7183. 
Authorities assured the public that the probe will be conducted swiftly to ensure accountability and justice for the victims.
The names of the arrested individuals were withheld pending the filing of charges.
Related story:
https://mb.com.ph/2025/09/25/deadly-valenzuela-blast-sparks-renewed-calls-for-stricter-firecracker-safety

Related Tags

metronews Northern Police District (NPD) Valenzuela City Valenzuela City Police Station
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