Fire task force extends probe

BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya, Philippines – The fact-finding team tasked by President Aquino to investigate the hotel fire that killed 16 people, including 10 male nursing graduates, in downtown Tuguegarao City has extended its deadline by 10 days.

The Department of Justice-led probe team was originally given 15 days or until Jan. 4 to wrap up its investigation and recommend the filing of charges against those who possibly committed lapses that led to the tragedy at the Bed and Breakfast Pension House last Dec. 19.

“We still have many witnesses lined up for interrogation,” said DOJ prosecutor Emerito Quilang.