Tragic Fire Claims Four Young Lives in Santa Maria, Bulacan

A devastating fire in Barangay Pulong Buhangin, Santa Maria, Bulacan, has resulted in the tragic loss of four young lives. The victims—two-year-old Ashley Mayo, five-year-old Brylee Mayo, and 28-year-old Mary Grace Mayo—perished in a fire that broke out at the AA Firecracker Manufacturing facility in Sitio Banca-Banca on May 22, 2025, at approximately 9:15 AM. dswd.gov.ph

The Incident

The explosion occurred during the morning hours, causing widespread panic and destruction. According to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the victims were among those who died in the explosion. The blast also resulted in injuries to five individuals, including Ryan Magnai (31), Raymund Montante, Jay-Ar Mejares, Nelson Duque, and Johnny Hompak (29). Several houses in the vicinity were damaged, with properties owned by Simplicia del Rosario, Teodora Hermogenes del Rosario, Clemente Herman, and Ryan Policarpio affected. The victims were rushed to the Graciano Mercado General Hospital by rescue teams.dswd.gov.ph

In response to the tragedy, the DSWD has provided initial counseling and informed the family that assistance for burial expenses will be extended. Secretary Judy M. Taguiwalo expressed deep concern over the incident, emphasizing the need for stringent safety measures in residential communities housing firecracker factories. dswd.gov.ph

Community Response

The local community has rallied together to support the affected families. Organized donation drives, prayer vigils, and financial assistance efforts have been initiated to help cover funeral and recovery costs. Volunteers from local organizations and religious groups have provided food, shelter, and counseling support to the grieving families. Santa Maria Mayor Russell Pleyto and Vice Mayor Yoyoy Pleyto visited the scene to offer condolences and support to the grieving family. Mayor Pleyto stated, “This is a devastating loss, not only for the family but for our entire community. We stand with them in this unimaginable time of sorrow.”

Call for Fire Safety Reform

This tragedy has highlighted the urgent need for improved fire safety awareness and regulations, especially in residential areas near industrial sites. The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) has emphasized the importance of fire safety education and accessible fire-prevention tools in every Filipino home. Director Louie Puracan of the BFP stressed the necessity of smoke alarms, emergency exits, and regular fire safety drills. He encouraged barangay leaders to initiate fire safety awareness campaigns in schools and community centers, stating, “Preparedness saves lives. We must make fire prevention a household priority.”

A Nation in Mourning

The loss of these young lives has resonated deeply across the nation, serving as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by communities living near hazardous industries. The incident has prompted discussions on stricter enforcement of fire safety codes and the need for comprehensive disaster preparedness programs at the barangay level. Lawmakers are considering proposals to subsidize the distribution of smoke detectors and fire extinguishers in low-income areas. Additionally, programs aimed at teaching basic emergency response, fire escape planning, and the use of first-aid kits are being encouraged as necessary tools in mitigating future tragedies.

Conclusion

As Santa Maria continues to mourn, there is also a sense of resilience in the air. Families, friends, and even strangers have come together, proving that in times of great sorrow, community compassion remains one of the Philippines’ strongest pillars. Local churches have opened their doors for prayer services, and grief counselors have been dispatched to provide emotional support to the bereaved families. While the wounds are fresh and deep, the outpouring of care offers a ray of hope during this dark chapter.

The fire in Santa Maria serves as a devastating reminder of how quickly life can change in the absence of preventive measures. While the investigation into the incident continues, what remains clear is the importance of collective responsibility—from government agencies to individual households—to ensure tragedies like this are prevented in the future. In memory of the young lives lost, the community stands firm in its resolve to rebuild, support one another, and work toward a safer and more prepared future.

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