Police in Barili, Cebu have apprehended one of two individuals believed responsible for igniting a firecracker inside a store, an act that sparked a major fire and gutted nine market stalls last weekend.
Suspect Apprehended in Follow-Up Operation
The arrested individual uses the alias Atan, 43. Although currently residing in Barangay Poblacion, Barili City, he is originally from Barangay Toko in Binanuagan, Negros Oriental. Authorities captured Atan at his home around 4:00 PM on Monday, December 29, 2025, during a follow-up investigation. He is set to face a charge of Reckless Imprudence Resulting in Damage to Property. His accomplice remains at large as the search continues.
How the Fire Started
A joint investigation by the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP)-Barili and the Barili Municipal Police Station pieced together the incident. Witness accounts revealed that prior to the fire, a motorcycle arrived at the area of Barangay Minolos, Barili City, which was designated for selling firecrackers. The incident occurred on Sunday, December 28, 2025.
The motorcycle's backrider alighted and purchased a 'triangle' firecracker from a stall owned by Maria Fe Delumbar. Witnesses described the suspect as around 30 years old and 5'6" tall. This individual then lit the firecracker and threw it near other displayed pyrotechnics. The flames quickly spread, igniting the other firecrackers and causing a blaze that ultimately destroyed nine stalls.
Investigation and Public Warning
The fire also consumed a Kawasaki Fury motorcycle (plate number 624 GID) abandoned by the suspects. Police and BFP personnel coordinated with the Land Transportation Office (LTO) 7 to trace the vehicle's owner and reviewed CCTV footage from the area, leading to the identification of the two men.
Authorities credited the swift resolution to persistent follow-up investigations, a directive emphasized by Police Brigadier General Redrico Maranan, the regional police chief for Central Visayas. The Cebu Police Provincial Office (CPPO) has urged the public to strictly follow safety rules when purchasing and handling firecrackers to ensure everyone's safety.
Investigations by Barili police and the local BFP are ongoing to locate the remaining suspect.
