• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
Eleven persons were injured after a firework reportedly malfunctioned and exploded during a fireworks display at the Kabuganaan Festival in Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental on Sunday, Aug. 2.
Initial police investigation showed the incident took place at the football field in Barangay 4, where a pyrotechnic exhibition was being conducted as part of the city’s festival celebration.
The injured victims were brought to the Holy Mother of Mercy Hospital for medical treatment.
Investigation further showed that while the fireworks display was in progress and being operated by personnel of Peacock Fireworks, one of the aerial fireworks allegedly malfunctioned and prematurely exploded on the ground instead of being launched into the air.
The unexpected blast sent shrapnel and debris toward spectators and event personnel, causing injuries to 11 individuals.
Among those injured were members of the production staff, employees of an audio system provider, a teacher, a local government unit employee, a military reservist, and a minor.
Personnel of the Bureau of Fire Protection and Philippine National Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit are jointly conducting an investigation to determine the exact cause of the malfunction.
Investigators are looking into possible negligence or violation of existing laws and regulations governing the handling and use of pyrotechnic devices. | GPB
