Residents watched helplessly as a fire engulfed their homes in Barangay 650 in Manila on Friday, Oct. 17. (Photo from Fire Alert Metro Manila)
Two Baseco 649 fire volunteers were reportedly injured after being assaulted by residents during a fire that broke out in Barangay 650, Port Area, Manila, on Friday afternoon, Oct. 17, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) reported.
One of the victims said he and his colleague were waiting for additional water supply when two men, believed to be residents of the barangay, suddenly punched them and struck them on the head with a wooden plank, forcing the volunteers to retreat.
Both victims were immediately given first aid for injuries.
Authorities are still investigating the incident and working to identify the attackers.
According to the BFP, the blaze started at 1:30 p.m. and quickly escalated to the second alarm at 1:34 p.m. as the houses were made of light materials.
The fire was declared out at 2:22 p.m.
No one was reported hurt in the incident.
Arson investigators are still investigating the cause of the fire and the cost of damage to property.