On Monday, a significant fire broke out in the densely populated Jaro district of Iloilo City, damaging 83 houses and displacing over a hundred families. The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) responded to the alarm at 12:56 p.m. for a blaze that originated in Sitio Dike, Barangay Benedicto. The fire escalated quickly, leading to multiple alarm levels being declared: first and second alarms immediately at 12:56 p.m., followed by a fourth alarm status at 1:16 p.m. Firefighters managed to bring the flames under control by 1:50 p.m., with the fire officially declared extinguished at 2:25 p.m.
The rapid spread of the fire was attributed to the construction materials used in the neighborhood—most houses were built with light materials and situated closely together. The incident left 106 families, totaling 366 individuals, affected. While 80 of the houses were completely destroyed, the fire resulted in injuries to 17 individuals, but thankfully, no fatalities were reported.
During the firefighting operation, two individuals were rescued; a 57-year-old man was provided medical assistance by the BFP, and an 11-year-old boy was returned to local barangay officials. Fire Superintendent Melanie Habawel, the Iloilo City Fire Marshal, indicated that initial investigations suggest the fire was caused by electrical issues. The fire is believed to have started in an unoccupied house that was constructed using both concrete and light materials.
This fire incident serves as a somber reminder as the month of March approaches, known as fire-prevention month in the Philippines. The displacement of 106 families highlights the urgent need for adequate fire safety measures in densely populated areas, particularly those built primarily with flammable materials. Local authorities are currently assessing the damages and exploring ways to support the displaced families during their recovery.
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