2 hurt as balloon blast mars oathtaking rites

CEBU — Organizers might have been planning a dramatic conclusion to the oathtaking last Saturday morning of Lapu-Lapu City mayor-elect Arturo Radaza, vice mayor-elect Norma Patalinghug and other officials, but they surely did not expect an explosion.

A big bunch of over a hundred balloons exploded in one huge bang during the ceremony, injuring two people standing nearby and scaring the wits out of many, including some of the officials.

Witnesses said a lit candle got too near the balloons and caused the blast. Balloons are usually filled with light, volatile gases like helium or hydrogen.

The candles were lit as part of a symbolic ceremony, which included the release of doves and balloons into the air in front of the Birhen sa Regla parish church, a dramatic conclusion planned for the event.

Notices on a bulletin board inside the church were set alight by the explosion, but Radaza’s supporters managed to put out the fire before it could cause any serious damage.

The oathtaking of new officials continued, with Sen. John Osmeña as guest. — Freeman News Service