Fire hits squatter’s area in Tondo

Fire razed a squatter’s colony in Tondo, Manila shortly after midnight yesterda, destroying 16 houses before it was put out more than an hour later.

Investigators estimated the damage to property to reach P2 million while three reportedly suffered minor injuries in the ensuing panic.

The blaze started at 1:07 a.m. and was extinguished at 2:35 a.m. Initial reports showed the fire started from a house along Capulong St. owned by one Rolando Cruz and spread to neighboring houses.

The cause of the fire remains unknown but there were reports that an unattended candle ignited the blaze.

The displaced families were immediately given assistance by social workers. The injured were treated for their injuries and were soon released by hospitals. — Jose Aravilla