Two children have died after reportedly being electrocuted at a fun run in the Philippines. The incident happened on Saturday morning during the Colour and Bubble Fun Run at Cauayan South Central School, where four youngsters were rushed to hospital.
The children who lost their lives are reported to be aged seven and eight. According to Inquirer.net, they were pronounced dead at the scene, while two other students were taken to hospital. It is believed that the other two children were also electrocuted.
Children playing near bubble-blowing machine
According to local reports, the four children had been playing near a bubble-blowing machine at around 6.30am. It is near this area that the children were electrocuted, reports the Daily Star.
The other two children, reportedly aged nine and six, were rushed to Cauayan Medical Specialist Hospital and Cauayan District Hospital. The nine-year-old only suffered minor injuries to his hands and arm and has since been discharged. The condition of the six-year-old is currently unknown.
Investigation launched
An investigation has been launched into the incident. Cauayan City Schools Division Superintendent Cherry Ramos said: "We mourn the loss of two learners and extend our deepest sympathies to their families and our sincere concern and support to those affected."
Ramos added: "We ask for compassion and understanding for the bereaved families and all those affected, and for their privacy to be respected during this difficult time."
The country's Department for Education has also issued a statement. It read: "DepEd is taking the necessary steps to establish the facts surrounding the incident and is coordinating with the local government and law enforcement authorities.
"A fact-finding investigation is underway, including a review of the activity, safety measures, equipment used, and the roles of those involved. Appropriate action will be taken based on the findings.
"We ask everyone to respect the privacy of the affected children and their families and to refrain from sharing unverified information, names, photographs or videos."
