Four dead, seven others injured in Masbate explosion
MANILA – At least four people died while seven others were injured in an explosion said to have been caused by a dynamite in a village in Balud, Masbate.
Reports from the Legazpi City-based Philippine National Police regional headquarters said the explosion happened at about 12:55 P.M., Tuesday.
Citing police reports from Masbate, PNP Bicol spokesperson Police Major Marilou Calubaquib said the explosion took place at the residence of Barangay Pajo Chairperson Lina Boco Recto, one of four fatalities. The fatalities died of severe burns and almost beyond recognition.
Among the seven injured were two minors. They were all brought to Balud Municipal Hospital for treatment.
Police investigation revealed dynamites from ammonium nitrate are commonly used in illegal fishing in the area. Despite heavy penalties for dynamite fishing, the practice remained unabated.
Bicol Police chief, Brig. General Jonnel C. Estomo said local residents should take the government’s campaign against illegal fishing seriously so as not to endanger lives, limbs and the region’s marine resources. (Melo M. Acuña)
A photo of Barangay Pajo Chairperson Lina Boco Recto's residence which was destroyed by the dynamite explosion. Four people died while seven others were injured. (PNP Bicol Photo)