2-hour fire hits Malate

MANILA, Philippines - A two-hour fire broke out at a residential area in Malate, Manila after a boy reportedly toyed with matches before noon yesterday.

Arson probers said the fire destroyed at least 50 houses on Arellano street.

Manila fire marshal Chief Inspector Bonifacio Carta said the fire started at 11:44 a.m. and was declared under control at 1:04 p.m. Damage to property was estimated at P1 million.

No one was reported hurt in the fire.