Boy, 3, killed in QC fire

MANILA, Philippines - A three-year-old boy died while his mother and sister were injured when a fire struck their shanty in Quezon City before dawn yesterday.

Arson investigators said the body of Mark John Cuntado was charred beyond recognition.

Senior Fire Officer 2 Fortunato Alde said the boy’s mother Aiza, 23, and his two-year-old sister Elaiza escaped death before the flames engulfed their house in Barangay Payatas.

Aiza said she tried to save her son but the boy was already trapped in the burning shanty.

Aiza suffered third degree burns while Elaiza sustained first degree burns. Village officials took them to the East Ave­nue Medical Center (EAMC) for treatment.

Reports said the fire broke out at the victims’ house at 3 a.m. and lasted for about 30 minutes.

Alde said an unattended lighted candle could have sparked the fire since the household had no electricity.