4 CHILDREN DIE, 8 HURT IN VALENZUELA FIRECRACKER EXPLOSION

FOUR children, including a twin, on Wednesday died while eight others were injured in a firecracker blast in Valenzuela City.

The fatalities were identified as 2-year-old Jiford Rey Pormento, twins Ronamie and Ronalyn Sabili, 7-years-old;  and a 13-year-old whose name was being verified.

The Sabili twins died on the spot.

The 2-year-old boy passed away while being treated at the Valenzuela Medical Center while the 13-year-old girl succumbed to injuries at the Tondo Medical Center.

Eight others are being treated at the Valenzuela Medical Center.  They were identified as Rosita Gonzales, 63; Lita Monsales, 52; Evelyn Esplago, 31; Michaela Sural, 24; Roujay Bautista, 24; a 9-year-old girl; a 7-year-old girl; and a 5-year-old boy.

Initial investigation showed the blast occurred  around 11:33 a.m. Wednesday at #173 Pieces St., Batimana Compound in Bgy. Marulas, where firecrackers known as “kwitis” were reportedly being stored inside a house of a certain Rodjay Bautista.

Captain Robin Santos, chief of the  Station Investigation and Detective Management Section (SIDMS) of the Valenzuela City Police Station said a comprehensive investigation is being conducted to establish all circumstances surrounding the explosion, including any criminal or legal responsibilities.

With the tragic incident, police reminded the public of the danger posed by improper storage of explosive materials in residential communities.

Valenzuela City police chief Col. Joseph Talento urged the public to remain vigilant and immediately report any unsafe or suspicious activities in their area to prevent similar tragedies.

Meanwhile, Valenzuela Mayor Weslie Gatchalian said the city government would provide the necessary assistance to the families displaced by the blast.