A 12-year-old boy was killed while his 12-year-old friend sustained serious injuries after a firecracker explosion along A. Lorenzo Street corner Abad Santos Avenue in Tondo, Manila on Sunday night, December 28.

Based on a report from Police Station 7, the incident happened at around 8:30 p.m. after the children allegedly lit a firecracker they had picked up from the street.

According to RH Boy Gonzales's report on dzRH's Magandang Umaga Pilipinas, the fatality was a resident of Almeda Street. His companion was rushed to the hospital after suffering severe injuries.

Meanwhile, according to a witness, a tricycle driver, he saw the two children holding what was initially believed to be a “big triangle” firecracker moments before a loud explosion occurred.

However, in an exclusive interview with DZRH, Manila Police District Public Information Officer Maj. Philip Ines clarified the reports that a “big triangle” firecracker caused the explosion.

“Batay sa nakuha nating account ng mismong victim, habang sila ay naglalakad, may napulot po silang paputok. Itong piccolo at fountain," Ines said.

“Pagdating nila sa Lorenzo St. corner Abad Santos, tumabi sila sa bangketa. Ito pong isang menor de edad, itong victim 2 [survivor] na nasa ospital ngayon. sinindihan niya ang napulot nilang piccolo at ng sumindi ay nadamay po ang bitbit ng kanyang kasamahan [fountain] kung saan sumabog po ito at naging dahilan ng kaniyang pagkasawi,” he added.

Meanwhile, the Manila Department of Social Welfare (MDSW) immediately extended assistance to the victims of the firecracker explosion.

MDSW Director Jay Reyes Villafuente said their social workers have already spoken with the family of the deceased 12-year-old boy.

Villafuente assured that the agency is ready to provide help and support to the affected families.

Authorities are continuing their investigation into the incident and once again reminded the public not to patronize or use prohibited firecrackers, especially during the holiday season.