ILOILO – A massive fire swept through the Alimodian National Comprehensive High School, destroying several key facilities and leaving an estimated P14 million in damages, just two weeks before the opening of the new school year.
According to reports from the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP)-Alimodian and the Department of Education (DepEd) Region 6, the fire broke out at around 3:45 a.m. on Monday, June 2. It was initially detected by the school’s security guard. The flames quickly engulfed the Technology and Livelihood Education (TLE) building, believed to be the point of origin, and rapidly spread to nearby structures made of wood and other light materials.
At least 14 rooms were reported totally destroyed, including five classrooms, the school canteen, clinic, band room, supply office, TLE office, and MAPEH office. The gymnasium also sustained partial damage.
School principal Rumar Cubin said the fire spread swiftly due to the age and condition of the structures, which were supposedly slated for replacement.
Cubin appealed to the public and stakeholders for assistance, especially in replenishing essential school supplies lost in the blaze.
Initial findings from the BFP suggest the cause of the fire may be electrical in nature, although a thorough investigation was ongoing to determine the exact cause.
Temporary classrooms
Alimodian’s Mayor Ian Kenneth Alfeche said the building was already up for condemnation, but the process was delayed due to the election ban.
He added that the local government unit (LGU) has already allocated P25 million for the construction of new classrooms.
The LGU is actively coordinating with DepEd Division of Iloilo to set up temporary classrooms using the town’s gymnasium and multi-purpose buildings to ensure that classes can open as scheduled on June 16.
The mayor also assured the public that the LGU will extend full support to the school, including the construction of makeshift classrooms, to prevent any disruption to students’ learning.
As the community reels from the damage, local officials, educators, and residents are now working together to prepare for the reopening of classes while recovery and rebuilding plans are being finalized./PN
