BACOLOD City – A devastating fire swept through Purok Kingfisher in Barangay 16 early yesterday morning, injuring one man and destroying 12 houses while damaging six others.
The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) responded to the blaze, which began around 2:42 a.m. and escalated to a third alarm before it was extinguished at 3:34 a.m.
Superintendent Jenny Mae Masip, the city fire marshal, reported that 49-year-old Alejandro Ti-ad suffered thermal burns and respiratory issues due to the fire. He is currently receiving medical attention.
The fire, which resulted in an estimated P675,000 in damages, was traced to an overheated appliance on the second floor of Gerald Arroyo’s residence.
The Department of Social Services and Development (DSSD) of the city government has recorded 27 families, one sharer, and eight renters as affected by the incident.
Evacuees are currently housed at the Education and Training Center School (ETCS), where they are being provided with food packs and hygiene kits while awaiting further financial aid.
In light of this incident and a prior fire on July 29 that impacted 81 families in Barangay 2, Mayor Abelardo Benitez emphasized the city’s commitment to enhancing fire safety measures.
“Our hearts go out to those affected by these tragic events. We are mobilizing all available resources to assist the displaced families and are working closely with the BFP to investigate these incidents,” said Benitez.
He affirmed that ensuring the safety of Bacolod’s residents remains a top priority for his administration./PN
