A FIRE destroyed at least 100 homes in Barangay 39, Bacolod City on Friday, Feb. 27. (Chamber Volunteer Fire Brigade)
BACOLOD CITY – At least 100 homes were destroyed by fire in Purok Katilingban, Barangay 39 here before noon on Friday, Feb. 27.
According to Fire Insp. Jemarie Tapiru, deputy city fire marshal, the fire broke out at 11:06 a.m., and was raised to fourth alarm, prompting assistance from nearby fire stations.
Response was stretched thin, as firetrucks had been deployed to handle ashfall clearing operations across Negros Occidental, following the eruption of Kanlaon Volcano.
Arson investigators have yet to determine the cause of fire. Fire out was declared at 12:37 p.m.
The area was also hit by fire in September 2014, destroying 101 houses. It was identified by the Bureau of Fire Protection to be a red zone or a fire hazard area.
As the BFP approaches Fire Prevention Month, Tapiru reiterated their reminder to the public to never leave their houses with unattended appliances or candles and not overuse appliances. She also advised them to immediately report fire incidents to authorities.
A man accused of stealing during the fire was mobbed by residents. Police said he had no stolen items and was just passing by the area to visit a friend.
Police Capt. Efren Legada, head of Police Station 1, said the case was referred to the barangay for a settlement, as no official complaint was lodged.