San Juan fire leaves 100 families homeless

MANILA, Philippines - A fire of unknown origin hit a populated area in San Juan City yesterday, leaving at least 100 families homeless.

No one was injured in the blaze that reportedly started at the house of a certain Buboy Ocampo on 3rd street in West Crame at about 2 a.m.

Arson probers are verifying reports that two men were seen throwing a bottle of kerosene at the house of Ocampo, causing an explosion.

Strong winds fanned the flames, which quickly spread to adjacent houses made of light materials.

Residents tried but failed to put out the blaze using pails of water. They started to evacuate when the fire appeared to be going beyond control.

Firefighters from San Juan City and nearby areas responded and put out the blaze three hours later. At least 10 houses were razed in the fire that reached fourth alarm.

The victims are sheltered at a nearby chapel still undergoing construction.