BACOLOD City – A fire razed dozens of residential structures in Purok Tambi Palad, Barangay 10 here on the afternoon of January 24, displacing at least 55 families or about 149 individuals.
As of the afternoon of January 25, a partial assessment by the Department of Social Services and Development (DSSD) showed that 34 houses were affected, with 30 totally destroyed and four partially damaged. Verification of the figures is still ongoing.
Those affected include homeowners, renters, and sharers, with at least 18 renters and three sharers among the displaced residents.
According to the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP)–NIR Bacolod City Fire Station, the fire broke out at around 2:19 p.m. and was declared under control at 2:59 p.m. The blaze affected a residential area covering an estimated 950 square meters. Fire authorities reported no casualties or injuries.
Initial estimates placed the cost of damage at around P237,500, although officials said the amount may still change pending further assessment.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation. However, the BFP said the fire originated from the Tupas residence and spread rapidly due to the light materials used in the houses.
Mayor Greg Gasataya personally went to the scene to address the immediate needs of the displaced residents.
“Personal man kita nga nagresponde sa sunog kag insigida kita nga nagpadala sang pauna nga bulig sa mga nasunugan,” Gasataya said, assuring that the city government would ensure sufficient assistance for all affected families.
DSSD head Richelle Verdeprado-Mangga said their office immediately assisted the victims at the evacuation center at the Barangay Hall by providing food, hygiene kits, and other essential needs.
Gasataya added that he directed concerned offices to prepare the Education and Training Center School extension, the nearest school in the barangay, in case the Barangay Hall could no longer accommodate all evacuees.
However, the DSSD noted that some affected residents opted to temporarily stay with their relatives.
Meanwhile, the office of Lone District Rep. Alfredo Abelardo Benitez also extended assistance to the fire victims./PN
