Fire Destroys Classrooms at Pawing National High School
TACLOBAN CITY — A fire erupted at Pawing National High School in Barangay Guindapunan, Palo town, Leyte, destroying at least three classrooms late on June 18. The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) estimated the damage at ₱1.2 million.
The fire started around 8:15 p.m. and quickly escalated to a second alarm by 8:22 p.m. Firefighters managed to control the blaze about 30 minutes later and fully extinguished it by 9:08 p.m. Thankfully, no injuries were reported.
Extent of Damage and Response Efforts
The fire completely gutted three classrooms, a faculty room, and a makeshift canteen, where the fire is believed to have originated. Five fire trucks from the BFP, three volunteer fire units, and support teams from the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) responded promptly to the scene.
Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the fire. Meanwhile, Leyte schools division superintendent Mariza Magan said she will seek help from the local government for rebuilding the destroyed classroom used by junior high school students.
Plans for Student Accommodation Following Fire
Magan also mentioned that she will explore the possibility of temporarily relocating affected high school students to nearby Pawing Elementary School classrooms to ensure their studies continue uninterrupted.
Local leaders noted the community’s swift response and cooperation in managing the incident and providing assistance to those affected.
For more news and updates on Leyte school fire, visit Filipinokami.com.