Talisay fire destroys 45 homes

CEBU, Philippines — A fire caused an estimated ?2.25 million in damage after 45 houses were totally burned and six others were partially damaged in Barangay San Lucas, Biasong, Talisay City, last Sunday evening, September 20.

According to the Talisay City Fire Station, the fire was reported at 6:51 P.M.

Firefighters arrived a minute later at 6:52 P.M. and immediately began firefighting operations.

The first alarm was raised at 6:59 P.M., followed by the second alarm at 7:09 P.M. and the third alarm at 7:15 P.M.

The fire was declared under control at 7:54 P.M. and was fully extinguished at 8:23 P.M.

Fire Officer 2 Mar Dee Auxtero said the number of families and individuals affected had yet to be confirmed as verification of the figures was still ongoing.

Fifteen responders took part in the firefighting operation; eight personnel from the Bureau of Fire Protection, three ambulance personnel, and four auxiliary personnel.

Two auxiliary personnel were injured while responding to the incident. Danilo Utlang Jr., 18, sustained a puncture wound to his left foot, while Manuel Voltaire Sanchez, 17, fainted during the incident.

The operation reached the third alarm, but no incident command post was established. The incident remains under investigation. — (FREEMAN)