by: Valerie Ann Dismaya
Two individuals were injured after an illegal firecracker storage and manufacturing site exploded in Dagupan City on Tuesday afternoon, an operation that city officials say had no permit to operate.
Residents across multiple barangays felt the shockwave at around 3:40 p.m., with several homes reporting shattered windows and trembling structures.
Authorities immediately responded and discovered that the blast came from a firecracker stockpile hidden inside a residential property in Barangay Tebeng.
Dagupan City Mayor Belen Fernandez inspected the affected area and described the scene in a conversational manner, saying, “When we entered, I saw several houses with broken windows. The impact even tore off portions of fences and roofing. People nearby were really frightened, they heard how strong the explosion was.”
Initial investigation showed that the firecrackers had been stored deep inside the compound, concealed behind residential structures.
Fernandez said the operation had never been cleared by the city. “We strictly prohibit this. We do not issue permits for any firecracker manufacturing here, especially something this dangerous,” she said. “If they had a permit, we would know. But clearly, this was hidden.”
One resident suffered severe burns and remained in critical condition, while a senior citizen sustained minor injuries and experienced shortness of breath due to shock.
The city government stressed that firecracker manufacturing, legal or illegal, is not allowed in Dagupan.
Fernandez said they would intensify enforcement. “We will implement even stricter measures, 1000 percent stricter. And I want to call on those who manufacture firecrackers in secret, please stop. We will be filing cases against those who violate this in our city.”
Authorities also recalled previous incidents.
On December 25, 2023, four people were injured in another explosion involving stored firecrackers in Barangay Mangued.
As the investigation continues, city officials reaffirmed that no permits will ever be granted for firecracker production, especially within residential areas, due to the risks it poses to public safety.
