Fire destroys 26 homes, displaces 20 families in Bacolod

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — Twenty families, or about 50 individuals, were left homeless this Christmas after 26 houses were destroyed by fire in Purok Tahong, Barangay 2, early Friday morning.

According to the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP)-Bacolod, the fire started at 2:12 a.m. and originated from a rental property.

The blaze quickly spread to nearby houses made of light materials in the coastal area.

Initial findings suggest the fire may have been caused by a candle left unattended due to a power outage, although arson investigators are also looking into faulty electrical wiring in the surrounding area as a possible cause.

The BFP estimated the damage at PHP 125,000. No injuries were reported.

Firefighters declared the blaze under control at 2:36 a.m., and a fire out was declared at 2:47 a.m.

Displaced families are temporarily staying at the barangay hall, which has been designated as an evacuation center.

Mayor Alfredo Abelardo “Albee” Benitez sent representatives, while Bacolod Mayor Greg Gasataya personally visited the fire site later that day.

The city government distributed food packs and hygiene kits to the affected residents, with additional supplies expected from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) following assessment.

Gasataya said the fire victims will be allowed to return to the area if they still wish to live there but cautioned them about the risks of residing beside the creek.

He said he would coordinate with the Bacolod Housing Authority (BHA) to check available slots at relocation sites for those who wish to transfer.

“These are the very same people who were badly affected by the recent typhoons,” the mayor said.

“Our priority is to make sure that no one is left behind after such a traumatic event,” he added.

“Let us please pray for them as we continue to work towards their recovery.”