4 DIE IN LAPU-LAPU FIRECRACKER FACTORY BLAZE

FOUR persons died while several others were injured in a fire that razed a firecracker factory in Bgy. Babag, Lapu-Lapu City on Monday afternoon.

A total of 10 houses, which were reportedly used as firecracker storage, were destroyed by the blaze.

Mayor Junard Chan confirmed the number of fatalities following the inspection and clearing operations.

“I extend my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families of those who died in the fire incident,” Chan said as he vowed to help the families of the victims.

Among the fatalities were Chito Berdin, owner of the firecracker factory, two of his factory workers, and a child .

The victims were trapped when the fire hit the establishment.

The blaze spread quickly and destroyed several residential houses in the area.

According to Nagiel Bañacia, head of the Lapu-Lapu City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, among the njured were children and elderly who were also trapped when the fire hit the main firecracker manufacturing area.

Bañacia said the injured victims are being treated at nearby hospitals.

An investigation is ongoing on what started the blaze.