Camera Damage Linked to Laser Installation at BaiCon 2026 Entrance

Several attendees at BaiCon 2026 at Lapulapu City reported damage to their smartphones and camera equipment after being exposed to laser lights installed at the event entrance during the opening day on Saturday, May 30, at The Mactan Newtown grounds.

Complaints began circulating on social media shortly after the event, with attendees alleging that the laser installation at the entrance damaged camera sensors on smartphones and other recording devices. Most of those affected claimed they were unaware of any potential risk associated with the laser lights, pointing to the absence of warning signs or advisories at the venue entrance.

At least one influencer who attended and participated in the event were among those reportedly affected.

The incident quickly gained attention online as attendees shared photos, videos, and personal accounts of the alleged damage. Several users expressed frustration over what they described as a lack of information regarding the potential impact of the lasers on electronic devices.

One attendee wrote on social media, “I came for the ukay ukay, left with a permanently damaged iPhone 17 camera from your entrance lasers no warnings posted, no signs, nothing.”

The post was among numerous complaints that surfaced following the first day of the convention, prompting discussions among attendees and members of the online community about event safety measures and the possible effects of high-powered laser installations on camera sensors.

In response to the growing number of complaints, BaiCon organizers issued a public statement acknowledging the incident and apologizing to affected attendees.

“We are aware that the entrance lasers on Day 1 unfortunately caused damage to some attendee phone and camera sensors. We are deeply sorry for this oversight,” the organizers said.

The organizers also announced that the laser installation at the entrance had been removed and would no longer be used for the convention’s second day on Sunday, May 31.

According to the statement, organizers took immediate action after receiving feedback from attendees regarding the reported damage.

“Thank you for your feedback, and let’s have an incredible (and safe) Day 2!” the statement read.

While some attendees welcomed the acknowledgment and removal of the laser installation, others argued that the response did not sufficiently address the financial losses incurred by those whose devices were allegedly damaged.

Several social media users called on the organizers to provide additional information regarding accountability and possible compensation for affected participants.

One commenter whose relative was reportedly affected questioned the organizers’ next steps following the incident.

“My cousin experienced this, and there were no warnings, so attendees didn’t know their devices were at risk. Day 2 was only adjusted after people reported broken camera lenses on Day 1. This looks like an oversight in your event management. What are you doing to take responsibility and compensate those affected?” the commenter wrote.

The issue also generated broader discussion among eventgoers, with some users suggesting that multiple attendees may have experienced similar problems.

Another social media user commented, “daghan jud diay na biktima sa laser.”

The reports have raised concerns about the use of laser lighting effects at public events, particularly in areas where attendees are expected to pass through while carrying smartphones, cameras, and other electronic devices. Camera sensors can be vulnerable to direct exposure from certain types of lasers, potentially resulting in permanent image defects or sensor damage.

As discussions continued online, affected attendees sought clarification regarding whether compensation or assistance would be provided for damaged devices. Some users urged organizers to establish a formal process for documenting incidents and evaluating claims.

As of posting, BaiCon has acknowledged the incident, apologized to attendees, and removed the entrance laser installation. However, organizers have not publicly announced any compensation program or reimbursement mechanism for attendees who reported damage to their smartphones or camera equipment.

No official estimate has been released regarding the number of devices affected by the incident.