Colored smoke downs Bicol U students

Colored smoke fills the Bicol University Sports Complex as students perform for the BU Hataw 2025. PHOTO COURTESY OF CHARMAINE CASAIS

MANILA, Philippines — Several students were brought outside the sports complex of the Bicol University (BU) on Monday, Oct. 20, because of cases of hyperventilation and suffocation right after a performance for the highlight of the university’s intramurals.

According to The Bicol Universitarian, BU Hataw 2025 was expected to commence the celebration, but colored smoke, which was used by the performers, eventually filled the venue, triggering panic to set in.

It reported that the students were “instructed to pop them at the end [of the performance]” but some had already popped the smoke bombs right at the beginning.

As the smoke triggered mild to severe breathing difficulties and other respiratory complications, patients were immediately brought outside, where they eventually received medical care from rescuers.

The Office of the University President already suspended classes and postponed all activities related to the intramurals in consideration of the “emotional and physical toll” the incident may have caused.

It said that all students who are still in hospitals, as well as outpatients, “shall be monitored and followed up by the University Health Service (UHS) personnel.” It also advised those experiencing symptoms to visit the UHS “for proper medical assessment and assistance.”

READ: Colored smoke downs Bacolod students, school employees

Back in 2023, at least 22 students and school personnel of the Bacolod City College felt sick after being exposed to colored smoke, which was also used as special effects for a class presentation.