Authorities in Cebu have apprehended one of two individuals accused of deliberately starting a fire that destroyed several firecracker stalls in Barili just days before the New Year. The incident, which caused significant property damage, has sparked a manhunt for the second suspect.
Swift Arrest Follows Deliberate Blaze
The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Barili and the Barili Municipal Police Station identified the arrested man as Jonathan Matosada, 43. Currently residing in Barangay Poblacion, Barili, Matosada is originally from Negros Oriental. Police captured him at his residence around 4 p.m. on Monday, December 29, 2025, just a day after the Sunday evening fire.
Investigators determined that the fire on December 28 originated from a deliberate act. According to witness accounts and evidence, two men arrived on a motorcycle at the stalls in Barangay Minolos. The back rider purchased a single triangle firecracker, lit it, and threw it approximately one meter away from the displayed pyrotechnics.
Investigation Points to Intentional Act
The explosion scattered fragments onto the merchandise, instantly igniting the highly flammable materials. The ensuing blaze rapidly consumed nine improvised stalls before firefighters could extinguish it. Police later recovered the motorcycle used by the suspects at the scene.
A coordinated effort between the police and BFP, which included reviewing CCTV footage and coordinating with the Land Transportation Office in Central Visayas, quickly led investigators to the suspects. This evidence directly pointed to Matosada and his unidentified companion.
Cebu Police Provincial Office Director Police Colonel Abubakar Mangelen Jr. praised the swift operation. "The swift identification and arrest of the suspect reflect the commitment of our police personnel and partner agencies to pursue accountability and uphold public safety," Mangelen stated.
Manhunt Continues, Public Urged to Stay Safe
As of Tuesday afternoon, December 30, the search for Matosada's accomplice remains active. The Barili police and BFP are continuing their investigation to locate the second suspect, who is still at large.
Matosada now faces a formal charge of reckless imprudence resulting in damage to property. Meanwhile, the Cebu Police Provincial Office has issued a reminder to the public regarding firecracker safety. They strongly urged consumers to strictly follow regulations and comply with all rules in designated display areas to prevent similar incidents and ensure community safety during the holiday season.
