Twin fires destroy P7.8 million of property, leaves hundred homeless

Local

TWIN major fires broke out just hours apart on Sunday, March 23, in Metro Cebu, leaving over P7.8 million in property damage.

These included a blaze in a densely populated neighborhood in Barangay Paknaan, Mandaue City, which displaced hundreds, and a fire that struck a government-owned bank in Cebu City’s downtown district.

In Sitio Talong, Paknaan, a massive fire broke out at 7:35 p.m., razing 177 homes and damaging another, and displacing 244 families or 805 individuals.

Residents described a horrifying scene as flames rapidly spread through the densely populated area.

“Murag impyerno (It was like hell),” said 52-year-old Rosita Genon, recalling how they were unable to save any belongings while fleeing their burning homes.

Firefighters raised the alarm to second level within 10 minutes of the blaze, and it reached fourth alarm by 8:04 p.m., with at least 21 fire trucks responding.

Congested roads and narrow pathways made it difficult for responders to penetrate the area. The fire was placed under control at 9:29 p.m. and declared out at 10:37 p.m.

While no fatalities were reported in the fire, a motorcycle rider died after crashing into a firetruck on the way to the site in Barangay Cambaro.

City Social Welfare Services (CSWS) officer Violeto Pintor said food, including meals and fruits, would be provided to displaced families for three days.

Temporary shelter has been made available at the barangay gym for up to 15 days. Cash assistance is also being prepared but has yet to be finalized.

Authorities are still investigating the cause of what was described as one of Mandaue’s worst fires this year.

Earlier that evening, a fire also broke out at the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) Cebu branch at the corner of Osmeña Boulevard and P. Del Rosario Street in Barangay Kalubihan, Cebu City.

The incident was reported at 5:19 p.m., and firefighters arrived on the scene by 5:22 p.m. The blaze reached a second alarm by 5:33 p.m. and was placed under control at 6:14 p.m. before being declared out at 6:25 p.m.

According to the Bureau of Fire Protection, the fire damaged around 60 square meters of the establishment and affected two individuals working at the branch.

No injuries or fatalities were reported.

Investigators estimated the damage at P4.8 million. The structure was partially burned, and only one building was affected.

A total of 38 fire trucks from the BFP and affiliated brigades responded to the call.

Both incidents are under investigation, as fire authorities and local governments work to assist those affected and assess the extent of damage left of the two fires.(MyTVCebu)