BACOLOD CIity — At least 24 families were displaced after a fire razed 11 residential structures in Purok Magti-ayon, Barangay 10, on the night of February 11.
The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP)–Bacolod Fire Station reported that the fire broke out at around 9:43 p.m. and quickly escalated to a second alarm due to the close proximity of the houses and the light materials used in their construction.
Firefighters responded within one minute, deploying multiple fire engines and rescue units to contain the blaze.
BFP records showed that six houses were totally destroyed while five others were partially damaged. Initial estimates placed the damage at around P75,000, although authorities said further assessment is ongoing.
As of February 12, records from the Department of Social Services and Development (DSSD) indicated that 24 families, composed of 43 individuals — including renters and sharers — were affected by the incident.
The displaced families are temporarily sheltered at the Barangay 10 Hall. The city government has provided food and other basic necessities.
A 21-year-old woman sustained a minor injury after suffering a laceration on her right middle finger during the incident. No fatalities were reported.
The fire was declared under control at 9:55 p.m., or 12 minutes after it broke out.
The BFP said an investigation is ongoing to determine the cause of the fire.
Local authorities and social welfare personnel continue to assess the damage and are expected to extend further assistance, including relief goods and temporary shelter, to the affected families./PN
