Fire in Lapu-Lapu Firecracker Factory Claims Four Lives, Injures Several

CEBU CITY: A tragic fire engulfed a firecracker factory in Barangay Babag, Lapu-Lapu City, resulting in the death of four individuals and injuries to several others on Monday afternoon. The fatalities and injuries were confirmed by Mayor Junard Chan following inspection and clearing operations at the site.

According to Philippines News Agency, the deceased include Chito Berdin, the owner of the firecracker factory, two of his factory workers, and a child, all of whom were trapped during the incident. The fire, fueled by black powder, rapidly spread, causing destruction to several nearby residential houses. Nagiel Bañacia, head of the Lapu-Lapu City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, reported that among the injured were children and elderly individuals, who also found themselves trapped when the fire struck the primary manufacturing area. The injured are currently receiving medical care at nearby hospitals. Arson investigators are presently assessing the full extent of the damage caused by the blaze.