The heart-wrenching scene unfolded on Saturday in Road 10, Barangay 105, Tondo, Manila, as a massive fire engulfed a residential area, leaving approximately 1,000 families homeless. The blaze, which started in one of the units before noon, quickly escalated, prompting the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) to raise the alarm from first to fifth alarm in a mere 30 minutes.
The fire's rapid spread was attributed to the presence of highly flammable materials in the affected buildings. Many of these structures were used as junk shops and lumber yards, providing ample fuel for the inferno. The situation was further aggravated by strong winds, which fanned the flames and pushed the fire towards neighboring establishments.
Despite the massive scale of the fire, the BFP managed to bring it under control at 6:20 p.m., after deploying 40 firetrucks and hundreds of firefighters from Manila and surrounding cities. The Philippine Air Force 505th Brigade also contributed to the firefighting efforts by deploying a helicopter equipped with a bambi bucket.
The fire caused an estimated P2.5 million in damage, leaving behind a trail of devastation. While there were no fatalities, seven people sustained minor injuries.
The fire has left residents grappling with the loss of their homes and belongings. Many were able to escape with only a few essential items, while others lost everything. The story of Edna De Jesus, who was separated from her 13-year-old son during the chaos, is particularly poignant. Her desperate search for her child amidst the ruins highlights the human cost of this tragedy.
The local government of Manila has pledged assistance to the affected families, with Mayor Honey Lacuna and Yul Servo visiting the area to assess the situation. Each family is expected to receive P10,000 to help them rebuild their homes.
While the cause of the fire remains under investigation, the BFP has urged the public to exercise caution and vigilance to prevent similar incidents. The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the importance of fire safety and the devastating consequences of neglecting it.
