Thursday, April 3, 2025

Coronavirus Lockdown: Working With Australia, A Facebook Joke, and More!

More news about how the COVID-19 pandemic in the Philippines is being handled by the public and the government. 

Australia is a major source of tourists for the Philippines and the DOT is working with Australia to sustain travelers interest to get the numbers back to pre-pandemic levels. 

https://pageone.ph/dot-working-with-australia-to-sustain-traveler-interest-amid-advisory/

The Philippine government continues to work with Australia to sustain its citizens’ interest in traveling to the archipelago amid its latest travel advisory.

Speaking to reporters Monday, Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco said Australia remains one of the Philippines’ highest growth and recovery sectors post-pandemic.

“They are averaging around 22 percent in terms of growth for arrivals month-on-month compared to 2024,” she said.

“We continue to work with both the Australian government and stakeholders to ensure this interest of Australians in the Philippines is sustained,” she added.

The Philippine government, she said, is doubling efforts to ensure the quality of tourism safety as well as travel convenience and accessibility.

Frasco, meanwhile, encouraged the Australian government to continue partnering with the Philippines to help them “rationalize their travel advisory”.

In its March 19 travel advisory update, the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) advised its citizens to “exercise a high degree of caution in the Philippines overall due to the threat of terrorism and violent crime”.

It reiterated its warning against traveling to central and western Mindanao, including the Zamboanga Peninsula, Sulu archipelago and the southern Sulu Sea area.

Frasco said the DOT is working closely with the Department of the Interior and Local Government, Department of National Defense, and the Philippine National Police as well as related government agencies “to safeguard and continue to elevate the quality of our tourism destinations”.

Australia ranks as the fifth-highest source market for the Philippines in 2024, contributing 299,286 arrivals.

In the first two months of the year, a total of 56,629 Australian travelers visited the country, posting a 19.36 percent growth from the 47,694 recorded in 2024.

On top of ensuring travel safety, Frasco said the DOT is also in talks with international and local carriers to expand connectivity and number of direct flights to the Philippines.

Looks the problem is Mindanao. That's a no brainer. Stay in Luzon and the Visayas and everything will be ok. 

Bacolod City is seeing a lot of tourists post-pandemic.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1247169

This highly-urbanized city logged a 6.72 percent increase in overnight tourist arrivals in 2024, further strengthening its status as a top destination in the country.

Data from the City Tourism Office on Monday showed Bacolod accommodated 833,345 overnight travelers last year compared to only 780,916 in 2023.

In a statement, Tourism Operations Office chief Ma. Teresa Manalili said overnight tourist arrivals in the city have steadily climbed in the past three years, recovering from the pandemic lows in 2020 and 2021.

“The city government remains committed to strengthening Bacolod’s position as a top destination in the Philippines under the banner ‘Smile, You’re in Bacolod!’ and in support of the Department of Tourism’s ‘Love the Philippines” campaign,” she said.

Last year’s total overnight tourists included 774,084 domestic and 59,261 foreign visitors.

The city’s top ten foreign markets were the United States, China, South Korea, Canada, Australia, Japan, Singapore, Taiwan, the Republic of China, the United Kingdom, and Hong Kong SAR.

Some 125,491 same-day tourists also visited Bacolod in 2024, data showed.

Meanwhile, the annual overview showed that from 803,911 overnight tourist arrivals in 2019, figures slumped by 82.22 percent to only 143,114 in 2020, and slightly increased by 3.12 percent to 147,582 tourists in 2021.

By 2022, Bacolod rebounded with 618,682 overnight travelers, showing an increase of 319.17 percent, followed by a growth of 26.22 percent to 780,916 tourists the following year.

In October last year, the MassKara Festival drew 98,563 visitors, higher by 24.03 percent compared to the 2023 figures.

“This marks the festival’s continued resurgence as a major cultural and tourism draw for both local and international guests,” Manalili said.

Aside from the MassKara Festival, Bacolod also attracts tourists to its other major festivals.

These include the Bacolaodiat Festival, one of biggest Chinese New Year celebrations in the country; Chicken Inasal Festival, a celebration of the city’s chicken inasal industry every May; and Bacolod Rum Festival, which highlights the role of the sugar industry in rum production every August.

As long as the Australians continue to visit Bacolod and stay far away from Mindanao they should be fine. 

Private banks remain profitable post-pandemic. 

https://www.bworldonline.com/top-stories/2025/03/27/662024/strong-growth-to-support-philippine-banking-sector-fitch-ratings/

THE PHILIPPINE banking system’s credit profile will likely remain stable on the back of the country’s strong macroeconomic fundamentals, Fitch Ratings said. 

“Fitch Ratings believes the Philippines’ resilient medium-term economic potential and favorable banking business prospects reinforce banks’ standalone credit profiles,” it said in a peer credit analysis on Wednesday. 

Earlier this month, the credit rater hiked the country’s banking sector operating environment score to “bbb-” from “bb+.” 

All rated Philippine banks’ viability ratings (VR) were also revised one notch higher this month. 

“This considers the country’s strong growth prospects, with Fitch forecasting GDP (gross domestic product) growth of 6% over the next two years, which should underpin banking business volume and keep impairment risks at bay,” it said. 

The government is targeting GDP to grow by 6-8% this year until 2028. 

“Rising geopolitical tensions and greater trade protectionism pose downside risk to the Philippines’ growth momentum, but we believe it is relatively insulated and more resilient than many of its export-oriented regional peers, given its lower reliance on merchandise exports.” 

The recent VR upgrade also “reflects steady improvement in the private banks’ profitability and asset quality since the trough of the COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) pandemic,” Fitch said. 

“Rising capital buffers at the state-owned banks support their credit profiles, and we expect this to continue over the next 12-18 months, helped by enhanced internal capital generation.” 

The net earnings of the Philippine banking industry rose by 9.76% year on year to P391.28 billion in 2024. 

Fitch raised the VR of BDO Unibank, Inc., Bank of the Philippine Islands, and Metropolitan Bank & Trust Company by one notch to “bbb-” from “bb+.” 

“The three privately owned banks have better standalone credit profiles than their state-owned counterparts, largely due to more established franchises and better underwriting standards,” Fitch Ratings said. 

“These factors will continue to help the banks maintain their industry-leading profitability and loan quality even as they continue to broaden their retail customer base,” it added. 

And they are doing better than state run banks. 

A Filipino in Chicago started a bakery business during the pandemic. Now he is thriving. 


https://chicago.eater.com/2025/3/27/24394961/del-sur-bakery-lincoln-square-filipino-opening-photos-images

While most don’t spend high school meticulously planning the future, that’s exactly what Justin Lerias did and he has the handwritten journal entries to show for it. Almost a year to the day after signing the lease and eight years since putting pen to paper, Lerias has finally opened Del Sur.

The 1,200-square-foot space in Lincoln Square is located next to the CTA’s Brown Line Damen stop. Lerias’s creative Filipino American baked goods — calamansi chamomile buns, turon danishes (in the tradition of sweet lumpias), ube oatmeal sandwich cookies, and longanisa-filled croissants — were born from an experimental pandemic home project that evolved to pop-ups and later at a more permanent home at Side Practice Coffee, the Filipino-inspired coffeeshop across from Amundsen High School in Ravenswood. Side Practice is owned by entrepreneur Francis Almeda, who’s also invested in Kanin and Novel Pizza Cafe. He’s also an investor in Del Sur, Lerias prefers to call him an advisor versus a co-owner. Almeda has played a big role in helping Lerias’s solo pastry career, including providing a home for his pastry pop-ups. Almeda, who constantly bounces around town working on projects, acts as an “investor advisor” at Del Sure, says Lerias. “Francis is too important in our little universe to force him to be in one space like he would if he was a partner here.”

Born on the southern island of Mindanao in the Philippines, Lerias grew up on Chicago’s North Side. His culinary experience includes pastry chef positions at Lost Larson and Big Jones. At Del Sur, he dives deep into showcasing both his birthplace and Midwest upbringing.

“Del Sur has been the culmination of my life,” says Lerias, who recently turned 24. “I’m a quiet and introspective person, and I feel like my pastries are a very good indicator of who I am as a person and how I approach my career and my work.”

When it comes to Del Sur’s baked goods beyond those signature items, Lerias gave his small team of bakers one caveat: no basic pastries. “If we’re going to be a specialty bakery, let’s really ride that,” he says.

He would likely never experience this level of success in Mindanao. 

The number of Filipinos self-reporting as hungry has hit the highest since the pandemic. 


https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/business/2025/3/31/more-than-1-in-4-filipino-families-went-hungry-in-last-3-months-sws-1152

About 27.2 percent of Filipino families experienced involuntary hunger in the last three months, according to a Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey released over the weekend.

The number of families who did not have anything to eat at least once "was 6.0 points above the 21.2 percent in February 2025, and the highest since the record high 30.7 percent during the COVID-19 pandemic in September 2020," the pollster noted.

The March figure was 7 points above last year's hunger average of 20.2 percent, SWS added.

It said families in Visayas were the hardest hit by hunger at 33.7 percent, followed by Metro Manila at 28.3 percent, Mindanao at 27.3 percent, and the rest of Luzon at 24 percent.

Some 21 percent of families faced moderate hunger, which meant they experienced hunger “only once” or “a few times” in the last three months. Meanwhile, 6.2 percent experienced severe hunger, which meant they felt it “often” or “always”.

Malacanang said it would look into the survey results.

“Let’s study where these statements that our fellow countrymen are still hungry come from and to know where it is and if there are any shortcomings, we can alleviate these kinds of situations,” Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said in a briefing.

She noted that the government was implementing several projects geared towards addressing hunger among vulnerable Filipinos.

“In the new report of the DSWD, there are already many programs that really help alleviate hunger. I will first mention the DSWD program that serves 300,000 food-poor households with the equivalent of 1.5 million individuals – across the country. They are given P3,000 monthly as food aid,” Castro said.

“The second program of the DSWD is Walang Gutom Kitchen. It is located in Pasay City where it serves hot free meals to families, especially children on the streets.”

“Apart from that, the DSWD has a program called the ‘Walang Gutom Project Kusinero Cook-off Challenge’ to improve public nutrition and there is also the Walang Gutom Project that provides eligible families with electronic benefit transfer – this is P3,000 monthly food credits,” she added.

The March 15-20 survey used face-to-face interviews with 1,800 registered voters. It had sampling error margins of ±2.31 percent for national percentages.

How were these hungry people surveyed? 

During the pandemic a student decided to apply for a Thai royal scholarship as a joke. It changed his life. 


https://globalnation.inquirer.net/270949/how-a-facebook-joke-earned-a-bukidnon-student-a-thai-royal-scholarship

Angelo Fernandez Virgo’s story may sound cliché — he is the youngest of seven children in a farming family with limited means, and from an early age, he knew that education would be his path to a better life.

“None among my siblings has ever finished college, that is why finishing college and becoming a professional is very crucial for me. I want to prove that poverty is not a hindrance to achieve success,” Angelo said in his introductory speech when applying for the Royal Scholarship for Asean Students at Suranaree University of Technology (SUT) in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, in 2020.

In April 2020, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Angelo Fernandez Virgo, a 17 year old from Valencia, Bukidnon, was browsing Facebook. He had just graduated from senior high school at Central Mindanao University – Senior High School and was looking forward to a university life under a DOST (Department of Science and Technology) scholarship.

One day, a friend tagged him in a Facebook post—intended as a joke—about the Royal Scholarship for Asean Students. Endorsed by Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, the program offered full scholarships for engineering and technology courses at Suranaree University of Technology (SUT) in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand. The link was posted by a professor from Mindanao State University (MSU), which at the time had a memorandum of understanding with SUT.

“I read the terms and conditions for the Royal scholarship grant, it is like the DOST Scholarship but without the return service condition and no refund policy in case the scholarship gets terminated during study (e.g., failing to meet the minimum average grade). It’s also a chance to explore Thailand and study for free,” Angelo recalled.

Angelo passed all the interviews and exams to clinch the scholarship. He was one of the seven Filipino students and 19 others from Asean countries who studied Innovative Agripreneur, Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Petrochemical and Polymer Engineering. Angelo was accepted for the Civil Engineering course. But the real challenge was the travel restrictions due to the pandemic and the financial difficulties.

“I had to secure a quarantine pass just to travel and process the school requirements including my passport,” Angelo said.

Due to travel restrictions, Virgo and his fellow scholars attended online classes for a few months before flying to Thailand on January 20, 2021.

“I had to stay at the house of another SUT Royal Scholar in CDO because we didn’t have internet and computer at home,” he said.

Plane tickets were costly, and upon arrival in Thailand, he had to book a quarantine hotel, which cost more than 28,000 THB. Medical insurance was also mandatory. Yet, Angelo and his family did all they could to have this once-in-a lifetime opportunity.

In Thailand, Angelo and the foreign students struggled during their first few months.

“The language barrier was tough. Many locals struggled with English, and most signs were in Thai. Inside the university, it was easier because we were in an international program, but outside, I had to rely on gestures and body language. Over time, I learned basic Thai words to make interactions smoother,” Angelo explained.

He also learned to eat spicy Thai foods.

Homesickness was another major challenge. “I often cried during video calls with my family. But having fellow Filipino scholars at the university helped me adjust. We shared dormitory rooms and supported each other.”

Angelo also connected with the small Filipino community in Nakhon Ratchasima, eventually making friends and easing homesickness. He was only able to return home in October 2024 after completing his studies.

Was it his dream to become an engineer?

Knowing his family’s financial struggles, Angelo said that he resolved to study harder. He excelled in mathematics during his elementary and high school years.

“In elementary school, we had writing exercises about our ambitions. At first, my parents influenced my dream of becoming an engineer, specifically to plan and build houses. I believed that Civil Engineering would be our way out of poverty,” he said.

“My family remains my biggest inspiration—I want to give them the best life possible.”

Angelo and the first batch of Filipino Asean scholars graduated on March 23, 2025. Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn conferred their degrees in the largest and most elaborate graduation ceremony in Nakhon Ratchasima.

However, earning his bachelor’s degree was not enough. Angelo believed that specializing in specific areas of Civil Engineering would open doors to various opportunities in the field.

In February 2025, Angelo was awarded another scholarship — becoming the first Filipino recipient of the One Research One Grant (OROG) Scholarship for Master of Engineering (M.Eng). He was endorsed by his adviser, Asst. Professor Dr. Theerawat Sinsiri. The scholarship covers full tuition and school activity fees, as well as research and conference expenses, though students must cover their own monthly and living allowances.

To the young people who are dreaming big, Angelo has wise words to impart:

“The possibilities out there are limitless. Do not be afraid to challenge yourself; you must be willing to get out of your comfort zone and grow. You have the ability and freedom to write your own story so be sure to make the most out of that. Dream as big as you can; it’s free. Be grateful to those who support you, and most of all, don’t forget to appreciate and give credit to yourself as well.”

Why did his friend intend it as a joke? What is so funny about studying abroad in Thailand? 

Golf rose in popularity during the pandemic causing one family to cash-in. 


https://lifestyle.inquirer.net/536850/malbon-golf-manila/

Ask any young athlete what motivates them in their chosen sport and chances are, stylish outfits will make the list. The founders of Malbon know this all too well.

With their bold and visionary approach, Stephen and Erica Malbon bring a fresh, fashion-forward perspective to golf merchandise in a market of cookie-cutter homogeneity—propelling the Malbon brand to global success, with distribution in around 50 locations in South Korea and even making its way to Justin Bieber’s closet. 

The Malbons’ entry into the golf apparel space is akin to a fresh, cool breeze on a hot summer day on the fairway. 

Golf has seen a steady rise in popularity in the Philippines, especially through the pandemic when it was considered one of the few permitted activities. The sport continues to gain momentum with Filipino players making big swings overseas, from rising stars like Rianne Malixi to champions such as Bianca Pagdanganan, Yuka Saso, Miguel Tabuena, Angelo Que, Rico Hoey, golfers of all generations with Filipino heritage are making their mark on the global stage.

Just recently, it was announced that the Sta. Elena Golf Club in Cabuyao, Laguna will host the Asian Tour International Series in October this year—marking one of the most thrilling times for golf in the country. 

It’s the perfect time for Malbon to step in and be part of the action,  supporting the sport they love in a country close to their hearts. Founded in Los Angeles in 2017, Malbon is the work of husband-and-wife duo Stephen and Erica Malbon, the latter of whom has Filipino roots.

Now, Malbon has arrived in the Philippines with its largest store yet, launched last week under TKG Lifestyle. The space joins a curated selection of brands outside Shangri-La The Fort, on the same row of TKG Lifestyle’s brands %Arabica and Gentle Monster. 

The store itself is an experience that merits a photo as soon as you step in, with sophisticated interiors, sleek water installation, and striking silver sculpture, all designed by architectural firm Eve Architecture. Customers can use iPad self-checkouts or enter the exclusive Buckets Club on the second floor where VIP guests can unwind after a round of golf (or shopping). Erica personally oversaw the design process, as she herself picked the wood and stone materials.

The Malbons have a deep love for golf which they consider “the greatest game on Earth.” As a golfer myself, I can’t help but appreciate the passion, the fresh concepts, and the excitement they bring to the sport. 

Here, we sat down with Erica to get to know more about the brand as they open their first store in the Philippines. 

What drove you to establish Malbon?

Stephen, my husband and co-founder, and I started Malbon with the intent of inspiring young people to participate in the greatest game on Earth—which we consider to be golf. We both had a passion for the sport, and we wanted to bring a contemporary flair to the brand.

Golf suddenly rose in popularity during the pandemic years. How did this affect your business?

The pandemic was actually a time for golf to really shine. I think that throughout the last couple of years, it’s all come to a head in terms of people playing. So I think there was the movement of brands like ourselves starting to make apparel and to make a culture around golf that was more fun and accessible simultaneously. 

When the pandemic hit, it gave people more free time to explore hobbies and try something new. I think it really helped propel our Malbon movement and our business forward a little faster. The pandemic, of course, was unfortunate, but it helped us look for the positive in every situation, for everyone at that time.

What better reason to capitalize on a new fad?

Wednesday, April 2, 2025

Residential Fires March, 2025

This is a reported list of residential fires in the Philippines for March, 2025. The Bureau of Fire Protection is on record saying the fire codes does not apply to residential areas which is why so many of them go up in flames during a fire. Being made of light materials all it takes is one spark to cause massive devastation. 

https://cebudailynews.inquirer.net/625748/100-houses-burned-down-in-2-hour-fire-in-mambaling-cebu-city

Close to 500 individuals lost their homes in a huge fire in Brgy. Mambaling, Cebu City during the second day of Fire Prevention Month on Sunday, March 2.

The fire, that hit a densely populated community in Sitio Naba, Brgy. Mambaling, lasted for approximately two hours and burned down P1.5 million worth of properties, fire officials said.

Cebu City firefighters received the fire alarm at 1:20 a.m., and immediately raised it to 2nd alarm as the flames spread quickly to nearby houses, most of which were made from light materials.

However, at 2:05 a.m., roughly 40 minutes after arriving at the scene, firefighters raised it to 3rd alarm as the fire had already affected a total area of 2,700 square meters.

Second and third alarms meant that at least eight and 12 firetrucks, respectively, were needed to put out the fire.

Fortunately, firefighters had the flames under control at 2:29 a.m. and around 30 minutes later, at 3:05 a.m., they officially declared a fireout.

Fire officials confirmed that the fire injured a 32-year-old man, identified as Lando Snani, who sustained first-degree burns on his left shoulder.

Initial findings from fire investigators revealed that the flames originated from a house owned by a certain Jorani Daomani.

The cause of the fire, however, has yet to be determined as of this report.

In the meantime, the latest count showed that a total of 105 houses were affected by Sunday’s fire, of which 100 were completely burned down.

The fire also displaced at least 480 individuals, most of whom are currently staying in nearby barangay gyms and schools.


https://www.philstar.com/nation/2025/03/03/2425472/4-fires-break-out-manila-quezon-city-pasay

Four fires broke out in residential areas in Manila, Quezon City and Pasay yesterday, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) reported.

In Quezon City, a fire erupted along Sitio Evergreen street, Philand Drive in Barangay Pasong Tamo at past 11 a.m.

Firefighters declared the fire out at 11:45 a.m. 

Another fire was reported on A. Luna street in Barangay Marilag, reaching the first alarm at 11:43 a.m. and elevating to second alarm at noon.

The fire was extinguished at 12:42 p.m.

In Pasay, a fire struck a house along M. De la Cruz street before noon yesterday.

Firefighters immediately responded, dousing the blaze at 1:34 a.m.

In Manila, a fire broke out on Labores street in Barangay 848, Pandacan. 

Arson probers have yet to determine the cause of the fires. No casualties or injuries were reported.


https://mb.com.ph/2025/3/3/50-families-affected-by-fire-in-muntinlupa

A fire hit a residential area in Barangay Alabang, Muntinlupa on March 3, affecting about 50 families. 

Based on the report by the Muntinlupa City Fire Station, the fire started at about 5 a.m. in Purok 11 in Sitio Masagana, a residential area beside the S&R warehouse club parking area and near the Alabang Town Center shopping mall. 

The first alarm was raised at 5:32 a.m. and reached the third alarm at 6 a.m. before it was put out at 7:08 a.m. 

Investigators estimated that the fire destroyed about P2 million worth of properties, affecting about 50 families or about 150 individuals. 

Authorities are investigating the origin and cause of the fire. 

A total of 40 fire trucks, two rescue vehicles and five ambulances responded to the incident. 


https://www.philstar.com/nation/2025/03/03/2425584/fire-razes-campus-residential-area-quezon-city

A huge fire broke out in a residential area in Daang Tubo, Barangay UP Campus, Quezon City on Monday, March 3.

Thick, dark-gray smoke billowed from the site as the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) raised the third alarm at 10:07 a.m., nearly an hour after the blaze started.

Under the third alarm, 12 fire trucks are expected to be deployed.

The first alarm was raised at 9:39 a.m., followed by the second alarm at 9:46 a.m. 

According to barangay officials, initial reports indicate that at least 40 houses made of light materials were destroyed, affecting around 60 families.

Fire volunteers worked to fully extinguish the blaze, declaring it under control at 11:21 a.m. The BFP declared the fire completely out by 3 p.m. 

C.P. Garcia Avenue was also closed as fire trucks and ambulances responded to the emergency.

In a Facebook post, the Quezon City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (QCDRRMC) said an urban search and rescue team had also been deployed to assist the BFP.

This marks the fourth fire in Barangay UP Campus within the past two months, with the last incident occurring on February 25 and the first two on January 26 and 27.

Authorities are still investigating the cause of the fire, the total number of affected families, possible casualties or injuries and the extent of damage.


https://mb.com.ph/2025/3/3/fire-hits-residential-area-in-rizal

A residential area in Barangay San Jose, Montalban, Rizal, was gutted by a fire on Monday, March 3, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) reported.

According to the BFP, the blaze started at 2 p.m. and has reached the 2nd alarm.

The inferno was declared under control before 3 p.m.

No one was hurt during the fire.

Meanwhile, arson investigators are still determing the cause of the fire and amount of damage to property.


https://www.philstar.com/the-freeman/cebu-news/2025/03/04/2425783/mandaue-blaze-leaves-hundreds-homeless-3rd-fire-3-days

For the third consecutive day since the start of Fire Prevention Month, another fire broke out, this time in Barangay Mantuyong, Mandaue City, leaving 500 individuals homeless after 80 houses were reduced to ashes.

The Mandaue City Fire Station reported that the fire alarm was received at 2:46 p.m., raised to the first alarm at 2:58 p.m., and escalated to the second alarm at 3:07 p.m. Firefighters managed to put the blaze under control by 3:35 p.m. before it was declared out at 4:42 p.m.

Fire Officer 1 Niel Amancio said they are still investigating the cause of the fire, which reportedly started at the two-storey residential house of Teresita Auman Garbo.

“Mga one hour gyud ang sunog pero bisan pa densely populated ang area, unya naglisud sad ta og sulod sa area kay gamay ang agi-anan unya ang pikas kay sapa. Mao atong gi-sumpay-sumpay ang mga hose aron makahatag gyud ta og tubig,” Amancio said in an interview with The Freeman.

No casualties or injuries were reported, but property damage was estimated at P759,000, covering a 1,500-square-meter area.

Garbo, the homeowner, denied allegations that a butane explosion caused the fire, saying their family uses “gasul” instead. She recalled that they were watching television when they smelled smoke and saw flames.

She said that her husband wanted to go upstairs to salvage some belongings, but she kept shouting that it was better for them to get out of the burning house and save their lives, she recounted.

Mantuyong Barangay Captain Julius Ceasar Agreopagita said around 60 houses were completely burned, affecting 250 families, and that the number of displaced individuals might increase. Many of the victims are currently staying at Mantuyong Gym and Mandaue City Central School.

https://mb.com.ph/2025/3/5/4-hurt-in-taguig-fire-assistance-given-to-affected-families

Four people were hurt and about 50 families were affected when a fire hit a residential area in Taguig on March 4. 

The Taguig City Fire Department said the fire happened on Kawayanan Street, Purok 6 Bagong Silang in Barangay Tuktukan. 

The fire reached the fourth alarm and lasted for more than three hours before it was put out. 

The fire station identified the injured as Allan Laguna, 54, and Bryan John Soriano, 26, who both suffered first degree burns on their right arms; and Kim Bryan Imperial, 29, who had a laceration on the elbow. In addition, Roselyn Roca, 28, had difficulty breathing.

Investigators estimated that the fire damaged about 50 houses and affected 50 families or about 100 individuals. The estimated damage was placed at P750,000. 

The origin and cause of the fire are under investigation. 

A total of 23 fire trucks, including those from fire stations in Metro Manila, 55 volunteer and local government units, a rescue truck, and 11 ambulances responded to the fire incident. 

Meanwhile, the Taguig City government, through its City Social Welfare and Development Office, conducted an assessment and intake interviews with the affected families. 

Evacuation centers were established in Barangays Calzada and Sta. Ana where the families can stay. 

The city government provided financial assistance, sleeping and hygiene kits, and food. 

The Department of Social Welfare and Development will give additional help, including hot meals and family kits. 

Financial assistance will also be given by Taguig-Pateros Rep. Ricardo Cruz Jr. and Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano. 

Mayor Lani Cayetano and Cruz went to the evacuation centers and talked to the affected residents.

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/metro/938065/1-hurt-as-fire-hits-tondo-residential-area/story/

One person was hurt after a fire broke out in a residential area in Barangay 108, Tondo, Manila early Tuesday morning. 

A resident from the house where the fire supposedly started sustained burns and wounds on his hands and feet after he tried to rescue his grandchild who he thought was still inside the burning house, according to a report of EJ Gomez on Unang Balita. 

(The child was inside, that's what I thought. So I went up there. I touched the mattress where the kid was lying. The kid was not there. My hand was burned. Someone just helped me at the stairs and pulled me down.)

According to him, there is no power supply in their house so they were using a candle that possibly started the blaze. 

The 10-year-old kid, who was left alone in the house before the fire, said the candle on the pot fell so they moved it to a speaker. Then, the fire started. 

(The candle fell into the pot. I just put it on the speaker. It was burning, smoking, and hot. The fire already grew so I got out.)

Four BFP fire trucks and 50 volunteer fire trucks responded. 

The fire started past 12 a.m. and was declared out around 12:44 a.m. 

(If you notice, the houses are made of light materials, but because the area is on the side of the road, the fire was easily extinguished.)

Two houses were razed by the fire. Four families or over 15 individuals were affected. 

“Pansamantala po sa barangay hall po muna sila manunuluyan. At kami na po bahala sa pagkain nila araw-araw. Nandyan din naman po ang [Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office] at [Department of Social Welfare and Development] para sa mga karagdagang tulong po,” Barangay 108 chairman Rodison Simbiling said. 

https://mb.com.ph/2025/3/6/fire-hits-residential-area-in-marikina

Three people died, while three others, including two children, were injured in a fire that broke out at a residential area in Barangay Concepcion Uno, Marikina City, on Thursday morning, March 6.

As of 10:45 a.m., the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) said the retrieval and identification of the fatalities were ongoing.

Meanwhile, the BFP said the injured included a 29-year-old father and his children, aged six and four, who were hurt when he jumped down the stairs while clutching them in a desperate attempt to save them.

The fire started at 8:11 a.m. from a house along Sipeda Street and was declared out at 9:44 a.m.

Arson investigators are still determining the cause of the fire and the amount of damage to property.


https://mb.com.ph/2025/3/4/fire-hits-building-in-tondo

A fire broke out at a commercial-residential building along Ylaya Street, Tondo, Manila, on Tuesday, March 4.

According to the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), the fire was raised to the first and second alarms at 1:12 p.m. 

It escalated to the third alarm at 2:38 p.m.

The fire is still ongoing as of this writing.

https://cebudailynews.inquirer.net/626673/firemen-put-out-estancia-ibabao-mandaue-blaze-in-1-hour

The Mandaue City Fire Office (MCFO) has declared fire out at 8:23 p.m. the blaze that hit Barangay Estancia in Mandaue City today, March 7.

Firemen of the MCFO responded to a reported fire at past 7 p.m. When they arrived at the fire scene, they then raised it to the first alarm at 7:20 p.m.

This meant that more firetrucks would be needed to battle the blaze.

At 7:30 p.m., the fire alarm was raised to the second alarm as more firefighters and more firetrucks were needed to battle the blaze.

At 8:03 p.m., the MCFO declared that the blaze was now under control, meaning the firefighters had already contained it from spreading out.

Then at 8:23 p.m. or over an hour since it was reported, the MCFO declared fire out or the it was already put out.


https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/metro/938616/two-hurt-in-residential-fire-in-sta-cruz-manila/story/

Two people were injured in a fire that hit a residential area in Sta. Cruz, Manila early Saturday.

A fire volunteer and a resident both had minor hand injuries, according to a report by Christian Maño on Dobol B TV.

The fire, which reached the second alarm, affected nine houses on Milagros Street in Barangay 317.

The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) said the fire started at 2 a.m. and was declared put out at 4:53 a.m.

A total of 24 families lost their homes.

The BFP said firemen had difficulty putting out the fire due to the narrow roads, interconnecting cable wires, and houses located so close to each other.

No one was reported missing or died, the BFP said.

Investigation is ongoing to determine the cause of the fire.

Meanwhile, property damage was estimated by BFP to reach P600,000.

https://mb.com.ph/2025/3/8/teachers-daughter-killed-in-iloilo-city-fire

Two teachers of the Iloilo City National High School and their seven-year-old daughter were killed in a fire in Zone 2, Barangay Infante, Molo District here before dawn on Saturday, March 8.

The two teachers  were identified as Julius Reyes, 48; and his wife Louelyn, 49.

Louelyn’s twin sister Louela Gregorio said she heard Louelyn scream for help when they were trapped in the fire that broke out at 4 a.m. 

Louela said they share a house divided by a concrete wall.

She said that she tried to open the door at the Reyes residence but failed as the fire was spreading.  

Louela added she heard them constantly coughing until it faded.

She also said  that they were unable to use the window as it was covered by steel matting.

Julius and Louelyn were Special for the Arts program teachers.

The Students-Parents Association of the ICNHS mourned their deaths. 

“It is with heavy hearts that we write this, struggling to find the right words to express the depth of our grief. Losing you is an unimaginable pain, for you were more than just mentors—you were our second parents, our guiding lights, and the very soul of Visual Artecoloures,” the SPA said in a Facebook post.

https://mb.com.ph/2025/3/10/trapped-pwd-dies-inside-burning-home-in-san-mateo

A person with disability (PWD) died after being trapped in his burning house in Marvi Hills, Brgy. Gulod, San Mateo, Rizal on Saturday, March 8.

According to the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) San Mateo, the fire started at the victim's room on the first floor of the house at around 4:30 a.m.

The victim was suffering from severe autism, according to a relative.

The fire was declared under control at 5:22 a.m.

Arson investigators are still determining the cause of the fire and amount of damage to property.

https://mb.com.ph/2025/3/11/6-pet-dogs-die-in-paranaque-city-blaze

A fire broke out at a residential compound in Parañaque City rendering 10 to 15 families homeless and killing six pet dogs on March 9.

 According to the Parañaque City Bureau of Fire and Protection (BFP), the fire broke out at Espiritu Residential Compound in Baragay San Dionisio.

FO1 Michelle Baclao said the fire started at the house of Robert Rafael and immediately spread to nearby houses which were made of light materials.

Baclao said 61 fire trucks immediately responded to the fire that started at around 10:42 p.m. and declared fire out at 11:55 p.m. 

 She said the cause of the fire is still under investigation and the estimated damage to property was placed at P375,000.

https://mb.com.ph/2025/3/12/woman-killed-in-batangas-fire
A woman was killed  in a fire in Barangay San Juan here on Tuesday afternoon, March 11. 

The victim was identified as Michelle Hernandez.

Hernandez was alone in her house when the fire struck.

Firemen discovered the victim's remains during mopping-up operations.

Arson investigators have yet to determine the cause of the fire.

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/metro/939101/60-families-lose-homes-in-para-aque-fire-allegedly-caused-by-unattended-stove/story/

At least 60 families were left homeless by a fire that broke out in Barangay BF Homes, Parañaque City Wednesday afternoon.

In Nico Waje’s report on “Saksi,” a resident claimed the fire started in a neighboring house after her neighbor left the rice he was cooking unattended.

She added her family was safe and they were able to save some of their belongings.

Another resident was also able to save his pet kittens, a dog, and some chickens.

Firefighters faced difficulties in extinguishing  the blaze which reached the fourth alarm due to the narrow street that was the lone entry and exit point in the neighborhood.

According to the Bureau of Fire Protection, more than 30 houses were destroyed or damaged. Property loss was estimated at P375,000.

There were no fatalities but minor injuries were reported among some people who helped extinguish the fire.

An investigation is still ongoing to confirm the actual cause of the fire.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2043244/fire-hits-a-residential-area-in-sta-mesa-manila

A residential area in Barangay 602, Sta. Mesa, Manila was caught on fire on Wednesday morning, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) reported.

In an update released 11:45 a.m., the BFP said firefighters responded to a blaze at 10:48 a.m.

The incident was raised to the first alarm at 10:56 a.m.

The situation escalated to the second alarm by 11:02 a.m.

Authorities later declared a third alarm at 11:15 a.m., prompting additional fire trucks to be dispatched.

As of writing, nine fire trucks and one ambulance unit are at the scene.

The BFP has yet to confirm any casualties, as well as the estimated damage and cause of the fire.

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/939127/4-dead-as-fire-hits-malabon-residential-area/story/

Four people were reported killed after a fire broke out in a residential area in Barangay Longos, Malabon City early Thursday morning, according to a report of Super Radyo dzBB’s Allan Gatus on Dobol B TV.

A relative of the victims said the fatalities include her three siblings and one niece, with age from nine to 38 years old. One of the killed family members was a person with a disability.

The Bureau of Fire Protection - National Capital Region (BFP-NCR) said the fire started around 3:45 a.m. and reached the first alarm around 3:52 a.m.

Around 41 people or 10 families were affected after the fire spread to six houses.

The fire was declared out around 6:52 a.m., according to the BFP-NCR.

Authorities have yet to provide information on the cause of fire and estimated cost of damage as of posting time.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2043509/2-injured-around-30-families-displaced-in-paranaque-fire

Two people were injured and around 30 families were displaced after a fire broke out in Barangay BF Homes, Parañaque City, on Wednesday afternoon, according to the Bureau of Fire Protection.

In a report released at 7:19 a.m. on Thursday, the BFP said the blaze allegedly started on the third floor of a three-story residential building owned by a certain Wilson Gatuslao.

Firefighters responded to the scene at 4:17 p.m., raising the first alarm at 4:30 p.m.

The BFP said the blaze reached the fourth alarm at 5:17 p.m., an hour after it began.

It was then declared fire under control at 8:59 p.m. and completely extinguished at 9:59 p.m., nearly six hours after the fire started.

Gatuslao, 66, sustained a second-degree burn on his forehead due to the fire, according to the BFP.

Meanwhile, Fire Officer 1 Alecx Romea, 28, suffered a laceration on his thumb.

Authorities reported that approximately 30 families were displaced due to the incident.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

A total of 34 fire trucks and three ambulances responded to the incident, the BFP added.

https://mb.com.ph/2025/3/16/four-year-old-girl-killed-in-san-carlos-city-fire

A four-year-old girl was killed in a fire in Barangay 1, San Carlos City, Negros Occidental on Saturday, March 15.

Fire Officer 2 Neil Bantillo, chief arson investigator of the San Carlos City Fire Station, said 26 houses were totally destroyed and one was partially damaged in the fire.

Bantillo said that the victim was sleeping with her grandmother and two siblings when the fire broke out.

The victim's six-year-old sibling managed to run out of their house and the grandmother carried her two grandchildren.

The victim was left behind, prompting her to rescue the victim, but failed as the fire has spread.

Bantillo said the victim was found trapped inside their bedroom during mopping-up operations.

A neighbor was injured saving her valuables.

Bantillo said the fire reported at 3:03 p.m. originated from an empty house. The owner was attending a funeral when the fire began.

Damage to property was placed at P375,000. Fire out was declared at 4:37 p.m. Cause of the fire is yet to be determined.

Bantillo said that the fire was the biggest in the area in the past years.

Fire victims are temporarily staying in an evacuation center and the city government and barangay have provided assistance to them.

https://mb.com.ph/2025/3/16/house-destroyed-in-muntinlupa-fire

A fire razed a house in Barangay Bayanan, Muntinlupa on March 15. 

The Muntinlupa City Fire Station reported that the fire started at about 8:48 a.m. from a house owned by a 86-year-old woman on Bautista Street. 

The blaze reached the first alarm at 8:56 a.m. before it was put out at 9:09 a.m. 

The fire affected two families or four individuals and damaged P21,000 worth of properties. The fire station is investigating the origin and cause of the fire. 

A total of seven fire trucks and two ambulances responded to the incident.

https://mb.com.ph/2025/3/18/senior-citizen-hurt-in-malolos-fire

A senior citizen was injured in a fire that broke out at Barangay Longos in Malolos, Bulacan on Tuesday, March 18.

The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) said the fire started at around 11:00 a.m.

A senior citizen identified as Lolo Jose suffered second degree burns and was rushed to a hospital along with Lola, the owner of the burnt house, who experienced high blood pressure.  

Four fire trucks immediately responded to the area and it took about 30 minutes to extinguish the fire.

A car that was parked in the garage of the house also caught fire. 

SFO1 Carmella S. Concepcion, Malolos City fire investigator, said they are still determining the cause of the fire.

https://mb.com.ph/2025/3/19/fire-burns-makati-residential-area

A 59-year-old man sustained first-degree burns during a fire that hit a residential area in Barangay Tejeros, Makati City on Wednesday afternoon, March 19.

The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) said the fire started at houses along Adora Street at 3 p.m. Due to light materials, the fire quickly escalated to the second alarm at 3:08 p.m.

Authorities said that around 10 houses were damaged by the fire, displacing about 45 families. 

Firefighters were able to put the fire out at around 4:40 p.m.

Meanwhile, personnel from the Makati Department of Social Welfare immediately went to the area to verify the number of affected families and provide initial assistance.

The affected families are currently staying at the barangay's covered court.

Arson investigators are still determining the cause of the fire and the amount of damage to property.

https://mb.com.ph/2025/3/20/1-hurt-17-families-displaced-in-san-juan-fire

A man was injured while 17 families were displaced in a fire that gutted houses on Ibañez Street, Barangay Little Baguio, San Juan City on Thursday, March 20.

According to the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), the blaze started at 7:11 a.m. and was declared fire out at 8:36 a.m.

Meanwhile, the BFP San Juan said the injured man sustained first-degree burns on his body during the fire. He is now in stable condition.

A total of 17 families equivalent to 32 individuals were adversely affected by the blaze.

Arson investigators estimate the amount of damages at P900,000. They are still determining the cause of the fire.

https://mb.com.ph/2025/3/20/2-hurt-in-quezon-city-fire

Two persons were injured in a fire that broke out at a residential area in Moral Street, San Roque 1 Barangay Pag-Asa in Quezon City on Thursday morning, March 20.

The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) identified the victims as Reggie Caldeo, 37, who sustained a laceration on his left middle finger; and Mary Ann Dela Cruz, 47, who experienced breathing difficulties.

The fire was raised to the first alarm at 9:50 a.m. and was declared under control at 10:00 a.m.

The blaze was extinguished at 10:30 a.m.

According to the initial investigation, the fire started in a bedroom on the 2nd floor of the house.

Arson investigators are still determining the cause of the fire and the total amount of damage to properties.

https://mb.com.ph/2025/3/20/fire-hits-houses-in-tondo-11

Three individuals, including an elderly couple, died in a fire that broke out in Tondo, Manila, on Thursday afternoon, March 20.

According to the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), the victims who died in the fire included a 45-year-old single male, and a married couple — a 78-year-old male and his 70-year-old wife. 

Several people were also injured, including Reynaldo De Luna, a 20-year-old civilian who lost consciousness. 

Three fire volunteers were also hurt: John Jerome Dumasig, 34, sustained abrasions to his left leg; Rodelio Banique, 47, experienced difficulty breathing; and Dexter Aniban, 32, suffered a lacerated wrist.

BFP said the fire was declared first alarm at 1:25 p.m. in a residential area at Reyes Street, Barangay 58.

The situation escalated quickly, and by 1:28 p.m., the second alarm was declared

Firefighters managed to put out the fire around 3 p.m.

The fire caused an estimated P800,000 in damages, destroying three homes and partially damaging three others. 

The fire affected around 18 families or approximately 54 individuals.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/metro/940170/fires-hit-residential-areas-in-valenzuela-and-malabon/story/

Two fire incidents were reported in residential areas in Valenzuela City and Malabon City on Saturday noontime.

The fire in Valenzuela City affected a residential area at Area 4 Pinalagad in Barangay Malinta, according to a report by Christian Maño on Super Radyo dzBB.

The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) raised the first alarm at 12:15 p.m., then the second alarm at 12:25 p.m., according to Valenzuela City authorities

Meanwhile, the fire affected a residential area on Yanga Street in Barangay Maysilo in Malabon City.

The BFP said the fire was put out immediately.

https://mb.com.ph/2025/3/24/200-houses-razed-800-homeless-in-mandaue-city-fire

Close to 200 houses were razed while over 800 individuals were left homeless in  one of the worst fires in Mandaue City on Sunday night, March 23.

The massive fire broke out in a densely populated area in Sitio Talong, Barangay Paknaan.

The fire started at 7:35 p.m.

As most of the houses in the area were made of light materials, the fire spread quickly, prompting fire authorities to raise a higher alert.

A fourth alarm was raised at 8:04 p.m. After more than two hours, the fire was placed under control. Fire out was declared at 10:37 p.m.

While no fatalities were recorded in the fire, a motorcycle driver died after he was hit by a responding fire truck.

The driver was cruising on a highway in Barangay Cambaro, Mandaue when he was hit.

One-hundred seventy-seven houses were destroyed while another one was damaged. The fire displaced 244 families composed of 805 individuals.

Damage to property was pegged at P3 million. Cause of the fire is still being investigated. 

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2046336/bfp-mandaluyong-fire-kills-1-injures-4

A three-year-old boy died, while seven others sustained injuries in a fire that hit a residential area in Mandaluyong City on Monday morning, according to the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP).

In a report, fire authorities disclosed receiving information about an ongoing fire along JP Rizal Street in Barangay Namayan around 6 a.m.

The blaze reached the first alarm around 6:16 a.m. and escalated to the second alarm at 6:53 a.m.

It was placed under control at 8:18 a.m.

BFP did not name the person who died but identified only four of the seven injured individuals as Jandie Ramos Abaluna, 29; Enzo Agustin, 21; Grace Ann Javido, 54; and Regie Garce, 55.

In a separate report, the Eastern Police District (EPD) said the boy’s father, identified as Jandie Ramos Abaluna, was among the seven people who sustained injuries due to the fire.

Citing Abaluna’s account, police said the fire reportedly started on the second floor of an establishment along JP Rizal Street and later spread to a junkshop nearby.

Further details on the cause of the fire are yet to be released, but EPD said the estimated cost of damage has so far reached approximately P3 million. The fire affected nine families or 21 individuals.

https://mb.com.ph/2025/3/25/2-hurt-30-families-displaced-in-caloocan-fire-1

Two persons were hurt and around 30 families were displaced in a fire that broke out in Barangay 176-A Bagong Silang, Caloocan City, on Tuesday, March 25.

According to the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), the fire spread quickly and gutted eight houses.

The BFP identified one of the injured victims as Ernesto Bucog who sustained burns on his back, arm, and neck.

Meanwhile, the details of the other victim were not disclosed by the authorities. 

“I felt heat while lying down, so I got up and saw that the fire was already entering my house. I have no home or place to stay anymore. I hope someone will help me.,” Bucog said.

Authorities are looking for the owner of house where the fire started. reportedly fled during the incident.

"We will bring food and clothing for them,” Joel Bacolod, village chairman of Barangay 176-A, said.

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/metro/940655/fire-razes-30-houses-in-north-caloocan/story/

At least 30 houses were destroyed in a fire that broke out at a North Caloocan community on Wednesday morning.

According to a 24 Oras report by Chino Gaston, students from Bagong Silang High School were promptly evacuated at past 8 a.m. after the fire began in a nearby area.

Firefighters immediately responded to the neighborhood of over 50 families but encountered difficulty in accessing the affected areas.

“Maraming balon here sa places namin so sabi ko magtulong-tulong na po para i-angat yung water para at least po maagapan yung dito kasi kakalat na po talaga siya,” said one of the affected residents.

(There are a lot of wells here so I asked everyone to help bring the water to at least slow down the spread of the fire.)

Bureau of Fire Protection-Caloocan said it took more than an hour to get the fire under control.

Five residents were injured in the incident.

Investigation is currently being conducted to determine the cause of the fire, which witnesses believe were possibly electrical in nature.

Displaced victims are currently housed at an evacuation center.

Meanwhile, no less than 10 houses were destroyed in another fire at Barangay 48 in Manila at around 2:30 p.m.

Firefighters were also able to immediately respond and prevented the fire from spreading.

https://mb.com.ph/2025/3/25/fire-hits-residential-area-in-qc-15

A fire broke out in a residential area at Road 8 corner Road 13, Barangay Bagong Pag-Asa, Quezon City on Tuesday afternoon, March 25.

According to the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), the fire was raised to first alarm at 3:36 p.m. and escalated to second alarm at 3:52 p.m.

The blaze was declared under control at 4:17 p.m.

https://cebudailynews.inquirer.net/630246/cebu-city-fire-kills-three-minor-siblings-found-locked-in-embrace

The burned bodies of three young siblings were found among the rubbles of their home in Sitio Avocado, Brgy. Mambaling, Cebu City that was razed by a fire on Saturday morning, March 29.

The three kids tragically lost their lives after allegedly getting trapped inside their burning home. 

They were aged six, four, and three. 

A report from the Cebu City Fire Station (CCFS) revealed that the blaze started at around 8:51 a.m.

The flames were first spotted at a two storey house owned by Junrel Abella and occupied by several individuals including Ynica Marie Siaboc and her family. 

Firefighters arrived at the scene at 8:51 a.m.   and raised the fire to the first alarm two minutes later.

At around 9:41 a.m., they declared that the fire was under control. It took them a few hours before the fire was completely put out at around 11:00 a.m. 

The blaze destroyed a total of 20 residences and partially burned five others. The total cost of damages was estimated to be P750,000. 

After dousing the fire, firefighters went to inspect the scene and witnessed the tragic sight of three burned bodies huddled up together inside the house were the fire started. 

The victims of the Cebu City fire were 6-year-old Sachna Lexy Siaboc and her younger siblings Razan Kyle, 4, and Athena Lexy, 3. 

The three were believed to have been unable to escape the burning house on time, causing them to be trapped. 

Senior Fire Officer 2 (SFO2) Wendell Villanueva, CCFS information officer, disclosed that their mother was at work while their father stepped out to get his e-bike. 

The occupants of the ground floor of the house were also not present at the time of the incident. 

Villanueva said that when the fire started, a neighbor yelled at the kids from outside to jump off the second floor. 

A few minutes passed but the kids did not respond. Authorities suspect that the children may have already suffocated by the fumes at the time. 

As of this writing, the investigation on the cause of the Cebu City fire that allegedly started at the second floor of the house is ongoing. 

Following this tragic incident, Villanueva reiterated their constant reminders for the public to refrain from leaving their young children alone in their homes. 

He emphasized that children, being part of the vulnerable sector together with pregnant women and senior citizens, must be watched thoroughly at all times as they are unable to care for themselves in emergency situations like fires.

The tragic Cebu City fire happened in March which is celebrated nationwide as Fire Prevention Month.

https://mb.com.ph/2025/3/30/fire-razes-houses-classrooms-in-malolos

A total of five houses and two classrooms were affected by a fire that broke out in a residential area at the back of Bulihan Elementary School in Malolos, Bulacan on Sunday morning, March 30. 

The teachers inside the school that were preparing for graduation survived the fire. 

Due to the strong winds, one classroom was consumed by fire, while another barely burned.

According to firefighters, the fire spread quickly, as the house was made of light materials.

Firemen from various barangays assisted firefighters from Malolos City and Bulacan 911 of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO).

School principal Thess Manalo reported that all of their mono block chairs were consumed by the fire.

It was scheduled to be used for the school’s graduation day on April 15. "Pero gagawan namin ito ng paraan para may magamit ang mga magsisipagtapos," ( But we will find a way for graduated use)," Manalo said. 

One resident, a senior citizen, identified as Ricardo Caluag, was left homeless and looking for a place to stay after his old house took flame.

No one was reported injured or killed in a fire that reached the first alarm and was declared fire out at 8:10 in the morning.

Meanwhile, Regina Victoria said five of her siblings and family members have lost their homes and property, and appealed to the local government for help. 

Information gathered by the Bureau of Fire Protection investigators stated that a few residents in the area heard a loud explosion before the fire started. 

As of this writing, the investigation is still ongoing to determine the cost and the cause of the fire. 

That is 40 reported incidents for March. Remember, these are only the major fires reported in the national media. Residential fires are up all across the nation and they do not all make the news. This is the tip of the iceberg concerning the real situation in the Philippines.