Barge Catches Fire in Albay: Two Crew Hurt
Two crew members were injured when a barge caught fire while anchored off Barangay San Isidro in Sto. Domingo, Albay, on the afternoon of July 9, 2025. The incident occurred around 3:44 p.m., according to initial reports from emergency responders.
The Philippine Coast Guard and the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) identified the vessel as a landing craft transport operated by a local shipping company. The blaze quickly escalated, prompting a second alarm fire response.
Cause of Fire Under Investigation
Senior Fire Officer 4 Richard Morales, head of the BFP Bicol intelligence and investigation unit, said the fire may have started in the vessel’s kitchen. “It is still under investigation, but the fire allegedly started in the kitchen of the vessel,” Morales shared during a phone interview.
Barangay Captain Danilo Ballester Sr. noted, based on crew accounts, that a gas leak from the stove is suspected to have triggered the fire. “The fire spread quickly due to strong winds,” he said.
Fire Suppressed After Hours, Crew Evacuated Safely
The fire was brought under control at approximately 7:55 p.m. after the alarm level was raised to second alarm. Thankfully, the other 20 crew members were able to evacuate safely before the fire expanded.
Among the injured were Christopher Lopez, 52, who suffered burn injuries and was immediately taken to a nearby hospital, and Ronald Boaloy, 36, who sustained minor burns. Authorities confirmed both received prompt medical attention.
This incident adds to recent fire emergencies in the region, underscoring the importance of safety measures on marine vessels.
For more news and updates on barge fires and maritime safety, visit Filipinokami.com.