• THERESA MAE DULMAN
Nine individuals are in stable condition after sustaining minor injuries during an accidental fire that broke out Oct. 21 at the Canlaon City booth in the ongoing Buglasan Festival in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental.
The festival’s multi-agency coordinating committee said the victims received immediate medical attention on-site.
Initial findings from the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) indicated that the blaze was accidental and caused by an electrical failure.
Canlaon City Mayor Jose Chubasco Cardenas expressed deep sorrow over the incident while pledging full assistance to all affected victims, regardless of their home municipality.
“The structure may be damaged, but we can still see how beautiful it was because it was built with pride, and with the spirit of Canlaon that will always stand tall amidst the challenges,” Cardenas said.
Negros Oriental Governor Manuel “Chaco” Sagarbarria already directed authorities to conduct an immediate safety reinspection of all remaining Buglasan booths across the festival grounds and enforce strict safety protocols to prevent similar incidents.
He said the provincial government will provide needed social assistance to those affected. | TMD
