Fire Sweeps Through Calbayog City Barangay
On Tuesday afternoon, a devastating fire swept through a barangay in Calbayog City, Samar, destroying 14 houses and displacing dozens of residents, officials reported. The fire started around 4 p.m. in Purok 7, Barangay Hamorawon, spreading rapidly due to the mostly light construction materials of the affected homes.
The City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) confirmed that the blaze destroyed 10 houses completely and damaged four others. In total, 45 individuals from 14 households were forced to evacuate, suffering an estimated damage of P321,000.
Cause and Firefighting Efforts
According to the Calbayog City Fire Office, the fire likely originated from the residence of Genesis Fortaleza, who was away when the incident occurred. Initial investigations suggest faulty electrical wiring as the probable cause, with the Bureau of Fire Protection continuing to conduct a thorough inquiry.
The fire escalated to a second alarm but was declared under control by 4:48 p.m. Firefighters from nearby Santa Margarita joined local crews in battling the blaze. Fortunately, no fatalities or serious injuries were reported, community members said.
Relief and Community Response
Mayor Raymund Uy promptly instructed the CSWDO to provide family food packs to those affected. Some displaced families are temporarily housed in the barangay hall, while others have found shelter with relatives, local leaders noted.
“In this trying time, the bayanihan spirit is evident as family members, neighbors, barangay officials, and the city government work together to help those affected,” the city government expressed in a statement.
Ongoing Support and Recovery
The swift response from firefighting teams and the unity among residents highlight the resilience of the Calbayog community. Authorities continue to monitor the situation and assist families in recovering from their losses.
For more news and updates on fire sweeps through Calbayog City, visit Filipinokami.com.
