Arson eyed in Sta. Mesa fire

MANILA, Philippines - A fire that broke out in Sta. Mesa, Manila on Saturday, wherein P1 million worth of property went up in smoke, might not be an accident, arson investigators said yesterday.

The Manila fire department’s arson division is looking at the possibility that several jobless men torched an abandoned two-story apartment along V. Mapa street.

Senior Fire Officer 2 Marson Perez said their motive has yet to be established but noted that witnesses saw them enter and leave the apartment before the fire broke out at around 3:30 a.m.

The blaze spread as nearby houses were made of light materials such as plywood and galvanized iron sheets.

No one was hurt in the fire, which reached third alarm before it was put out just before 6 a.m.

Investigators have sought police assistance to identify the arsonists.