A MASSIVE fire that tore through a residential area along Cabildo Street in Intramuros was declared out late Wednesday, according to the Manila Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office.
In a Facebook post Thursday, the office said the blaze started around 5 p.m. Wednesday and reached the fourth alarm. Firefighters suppressed the flames by 11:33 p.m.
Barangay 655 Chairman Johnny Yacub told reporters Wednesday that a resident — an ex-convict recently released from prison — deliberately started the fire, allegedly motivated by jealousy.
“One of the people here started the fire and he was beaten up,” Yacub said in Filipino. “I’m not sure what else happened, because I told them not to hurt him, but villagers ganged up on him.”
Yacub attributed the incident to a “lover’s quarrel.” The man is currently under investigation for arson and reckless endangerment.
While there were no immediate reports of fatalities or injuries, the blaze left 532 families homeless, according to the Manila Department of Social Welfare.
“The Delpan Evacuation Center was also immediately opened to accommodate the families and ensure their temporary shelter and safety,” the city office stated Thursday.
The Manila city government said Thursday that authorities are conducting clearing operations and assessments to ensure the safety of residents and provide assistance to those affected.
