Police have identified the operator of the illegal firecracker workshop that exploded in Barangay Tebeng, Dagupan City, damaging dozens of homes and injuring several residents.

The Dagupan City Police Office (DCPO) said they are now searching for the operator’s whereabouts and preparing complaints that affected residents may file.

PCOL Orly Pagaduan, DCPO director, said police are encouraging those affected to come forward.

“Tinatawagan natin sila para ma-consolidate ang complaints, bale dalawang kaso kasi iyan — ‘yung damage to properties and physical injuries at ‘yung sa pagbabawal na paggawa ng paputok,” he said.

According to the Barangay Tebeng Council, the explosion affected 48 houses, damaging ceilings, lighting fixtures, and windows.

Barangay administrator Marvin Magsano said residents have begun requesting help following the incident.

“Nag-ask ‘yung mga affected ng assistance, mostly kasi nasira mga kisame, ilaw, bintana,” he said.

Some residents also confirmed that relatives of the identified operator have started visiting homes to discuss compensation.

“Pinuntahan na kami dito, inaalam ang gastos namin, babayaran daw nila, nag ha-house to house sila,” Angel Abalos, an affected resident, said.

Police said four injured victims have already been discharged from the hospital, while one remains confined due to serious injuries.