2 children die in Lucena City fire

MANILA, Philippines — A fire that broke out in Purok 5 in Barangay Dalahican, Lucena City claimed the lives of two children, aged two years and one year, on Saturday.

Investigation showed that their mother left them inside their house to buy coconut oil for their improvised lamp as there was no electricity at the time.

Before firefighters arrived, their neighbors organized a bucket relay to put out the blaze and prevent it from spreading.

Arson investigators said one of the victims was found lifeless inside the bedroom, while the other was rescued by neighbors but was later pronounced dead at the hospital. No other injuries were reported.

City fire marshal Supt. Elias Baguio III reminded the public to observe fire safety precautions when using open flames or lamps and to never leave children unattended inside their homes.