Three individuals were injured, while 1,500 families were affected in a massive fire that broke out on Wednesday morning, August 6, in a densely populated residential area in the vicinity of Aroma Compound along Road 10 in Barangay 105, Tondo, Manila.

The blaze sent thick plumes of smoke into the sky and triggered a swift, large-scale firefighting response.

According to the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), two firefighters and one civilian sustained minor burns. 

The fire was first reported at 9:47 a.m. and immediately raised to the first alarm status.

Within just one minute, it escalated to the second alarm as flames spread rapidly through the area, which consisted largely of tightly packed shanties made from lightweight materials.

By 9:55 a.m., the situation had worsened, prompting a third alarm declaration.

Both the fourth and fifth alarms were declared simultaneously at 10:10 a.m., underscoring the speed and severity of the incident.

By 10:17 a.m., the BFP raised the response level to Task Force Alpha, and Task Force Bravo and Charlie at 10:57  a.m. The fire was declared under control around noon.

Firefighting units from across the Metro Manila region were mobilized due to the scale of the emergency.

Firefighters from multiple districts, along with volunteer brigades, rushed to the scene. This caused long traffic jams in the nearby streets.

As of this writing, no fatalities have been reported.

The Manila Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development worked to evacuate residents as they flee their homes, carrying children, elderly family members, and a few salvaged possessions.

The local units have also set up temporary evacuation centers and prepared relief assistance.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Authorities have urged residents to stay clear of the area to allow emergency responders to operate safely and effectively.

This is a developing story.