Fire displaces 390 people in Tacloban City
TACLOBAN CITY — More than 390 people lost their homes on Monday after a fire allegedly caused by phone charging ravaged a depressed community in this city.
The blaze started in Barangay 39, Calvary Hill at 7:47 a.m. and was declared under control by 9:04 a.m.
At least 36 houses, most of which were made of light materials, were destroyed.
Chief Inspector Anthony de la Paz, city fire director, said authorities were still investigating the cause of the fire.
“We cannot yet determine the cause of the incident as the investigation is still ongoing. However, we can confirm that no one was hurt or injured,” he said in a media interview.
Initial reports revealed that the fire started in the house of Letecia Ayaso where a plugged-in mobile phone charger allegedly exploded.
Article continues after this advertisementFirefighters from the City Fire Office, assisted by private fire volunteers and some fire stations from neighboring towns, struggled to put out the flames as the houses were located adjacent to each other.
Article continues after this advertisementFire victim Rosalinda Mascarinas said she had to flee her home upon seeing thick smoke billowing from her neighbor’s house.
“We were unable to save anything except for some personal documents,” she said, adding that even their pet cat was left behind.
The displaced families are staying at the barangay hall or with relatives.
De la Paz estimated the damage caused by the fire at around P3 million.
The City Social Welfare and Development Office has provided immediate assistance to the victims, including ready-to-eat food.
The city government is also set to extend financial aid to the affected families.
