Fire hits 15 houses in Sta. Mesa, causes traffic disruption
Courtesy of Jason Bazares/Facebook page
A fire hit a residential area in Sta. Mesa, Manila, on Saturday morning, July 5, destroying at least 15 structures and displacing more than 90 residents.
The fire involved a three-storey residential building made of light materials and rapidly spread through the densely packed neighborhood.
According to the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), the blaze was first reported at 09:31 a.m. It was raised to the first alarm at 09:34 a.m., escalated to the second alarm at 09:35 a.m., and reached the third alarm by 09:45 a.m. due to the rapid spread of flames and the density of the residential structures.
Fire trucks and emergency responders rushed to the scene, temporarily blocking portions of Santol Street and nearby intersections.
The incident caused significant traffic congestion in the area, affecting both private vehicles and public transportation.
Motorists were advised to avoid the area and take alternative routes while firefighting and clearing operations continue.
The fire reached under control status at 10:20 a.m. and was declared fire out at 10:45 a.m.
The BFP is still determining the cause of the blaze.
It said that an estimated 150 square meters of residential area were affected.
No injured residents or casualties were reported.
Authorities continue to assess damages and assist the displaced residents.