Fire hits Malabon; 4 dead, 3 hurt

MANILA, Philippines — Four people died and three others were injured in a fire that broke out in Barangay Longos, Malabon at dawn yesterday.

The fire started at a house on Tanigue street at 3:45 a.m. and reached the first alarm. Four firetrucks responded.

Firefighters declared the blaze under control at 6:52 a.m.

At 10 a.m., arson investigators recovered the remains of the fatalities, including a nine-year-old girl and a 38-year-old person with disability.

The bodies were found at the back portion of the house where they were likely trapped, according to the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP).

Authorities said the fire razed a two-story house, which was occupied by six families.

Four neighboring houses were also destroyed, the BFP said.

Firefighters said they encountered difficulty extinguishing the flames due to narrow pathways and overhead electrical wires leading to the compound.

Authorities are still investigating what caused the fire and the estimated cost of damage to property.

Sixteen families were displaced by the fire. They are taking shelter at the Longos multipurpose hall and disaster building.

Malabon Mayor Jeannie Sandoval distributed food packs and hygiene kits to the affected residents.

The city’s social welfare and development department also gave hot meals and set up modular tents for the victims.

Financial aid will also be given to the affected families, Sandoval said.