BFP Responds Within Minutes to Buglasan Fire

According to the official statement, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) received the emergency call at 9:04 PM. Firefighting units were dispatched one minute later and arrived at the scene at 9:07 PM.

The fire was brought under control by 9:09 PM, with authorities declaring a complete fire-out at 9:15 PM.

The rapid response helped contain the incident, while emergency personnel from several agencies assisted the injured and coordinated medical transport.

The initial BFP report cited in the statement identified the suspected cause as an accidental electrical incident. Further details about the specific source of the fire were not provided in the statement.

Nine People Injured, All Reported Stable

The official statement confirmed that nine individuals sustained abrasions and minor burns during the incident.

Emergency teams from the Provincial Health Office (PHO), the Philippine Red Cross, the Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (LDRRMO) of Negros Oriental, and One Rescue provided medical assistance and transportation.

The injured individuals were brought to Negros Oriental Provincial Hospital (NOPH) and Silliman University Medical Center (SUMC) for immediate treatment.

According to the committee, all nine were in stable condition following the incident.

Governor Orders Immediate Safety Inspections

Following the fire, Governor Manuel “Chaco” Sagarbarria ordered the Buglasan Safety and Security Committee, led by the Bureau of Fire Protection, to immediately reinspect all booths at the festival.

The inspection order aims to identify potential hazards and reduce the risk of similar incidents during the ongoing celebrations.

Electrical installations and other potential fire hazards are important safety considerations at temporary festival booths, where lighting, decorations, and electrical equipment may be used in confined spaces.

The committee’s statement also reassured the public, festival visitors, and participants that safety protocols were in place.

Buglasan Festival 2026: Safety Remains a Priority

Buglasan Festival is a major annual celebration in Negros Oriental, bringing together local government units, communities, performers, vendors, and visitors.

The fire at the Canlaon Booth highlights the importance of emergency preparedness and the enforcement of safety measures at crowded public events.

The provincial government’s directive to reinspect the booths is intended to help ensure that festival activities can continue with appropriate safety precautions.

Visitors attending Buglasan Festival should follow instructions from event organizers and emergency personnel and report potential hazards to the appropriate authorities.

Dumaguete.com will continue to share relevant local updates as additional verified information becomes available.