At least 400 families were rendered homeless after a coastal area in Zamboanga City was hit by a four-hour blaze on Saturday, March 20, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) reported.
Based on the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) report, the fire was first reported in an abandoned house in Campo Islam, Baliwasan Seaside, Zamboanga City at around 4 a.m.
It was declared under control at around 8 a.m.
Since the houses of the residential area were made of light materials, the fire spread fast and destroyed 200 houses.
PCG personnel of the BRP Bagacay (MRRV-4410) and BRP Malamawi (FPB-2403) assisted the BFP in the rescue and evacuation of the affected residents.
Authorities are still investigating the cause of the fire.