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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider Metro Manila devider Marital issues eyed in tragic Bulacan fire that killed mother, 3 children

Marital issues eyed in tragic Bulacan fire that killed mother, 3 children

Published May 21, 2025 06:50 pm

At A Glance

  • Investigators are looking into reports that the woman had been struggling with emotional distress linked to her relationship.
Authorities suspect that marital problems may have played a key role in the tragic fire that claimed the lives of a mother and her three young children in Sta. Maria, Bulacan, on Thursday morning, May 15.
Investigators are looking into reports that the woman had been struggling with emotional distress linked to her relationship.
The fire broke out in Sitio Old Borlan, Barangay San Vicente, where neighbors reported seeing thick smoke rising from the house. In a desperate attempt to help, they tore down the gate and tried to contain the flames before firefighters arrived.
According to initial reports, the 28-year-old mother allegedly poured paint thinner on her children and set them on fire before taking her own life.
Closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage reportedly captured the mother dousing her children with the flammable liquid. 
Responders discovered the body of the youngest child, a one-year-old, in bed. 
The other two children, aged three and six, were found in the bathroom.
The three children, along with their mother, were rushed to the hospital where they were all declared dead on arrival.
The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) found matches and bottles of paint thinner inside the house, indicating the fire was intentional. 
Fire Investigator SF03 Alfredo Hernandez suggested that an individual may have been set on fire first, triggering the blaze.
Barangay Captain Potenciano Lorenzo revealed that, earlier that day, the mother had visited their office to report issues with her husband. 
He said they planned to mediate, but the tragedy occurred before they could act.
Authorities continue their investigation as the community grieves the heartbreaking incident.





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