BACOLOD City — Two separate fire incidents struck the city late Tuesday night and early Wednesday morning, leaving one person dead, another injured, and several homes destroyed.
In separate reports released by the Bureau of Fire Protection-Bacolod City on May 7, 2026, the first and more tragic incident occurred at around 10:04 p.m. on May 6 in Purok Maanyag 2, Barangay Alijis.
Authorities identified the fatality as 79-year-old Rosa Magbanua, who reportedly made a final effort to ensure her husband’s safety before being trapped by the blaze.
Her husband, Jose Magbanua, 62, sustained first-degree burns on his back and was given medical attention.
The fire affected six residential structures, with four houses destroyed and two damaged.
Around 15 individuals from six families were affected. Initial estimates placed the damage at approximately P35,000.
In a statement, Greg Gasataya expressed condolences to the family of the deceased.
“The City Government of Bacolod views this loss as a profound tragedy. We extend our sincerest sympathies to the victims, especially to the bereaved family, and assure them that the City stands ready to provide necessary support during this period of grief and recovery,” he said.
He also reminded residents to remain vigilant in ensuring fire safety in their homes and communities.
Just hours later, another fire broke out at around 2:09 a.m. on May 7 in Purok Magnolia along 16th Lacson Street, Barangay 7.
The second fire involved residential structures and small sari-sari stores owned by Maria Theresa Bagasa.
Four structures — including two houses and two sari-sari stores — were destroyed.
No injuries or fatalities were reported in the second incident, although around 18 individuals from three families were affected.
Estimated damage was pegged at around P975,000.
Authorities have yet to determine the causes of both fires as investigations remain ongoing./PN
