Arson eyed in Intramuros fire; suspect arrested

MANILA, Philippines —   Police arrested a 36-year-old man who allegedly set his house on fire, causing a massive blaze in Intramuros, Manila on Wednesday.

Jervy Roldan, alias “Burnok,” was taken into police custody.

The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) said several shanties on Cabildo street in Barangay 655 were destroyed.

The fire broke out at 5:28 p.m. and reached the fourth alarm before it was extinguished at around 11:30 p.m. 

The Manila Department of Social Welfare said 532 families were left homeless.

Arson probers said damage to property was estimated at P10 million.

Police said residents assaulted Roldan, who suffered injuries and was taken to the Jose R. Reyes Memorial Medical Center for treatment.

The suspect’s motive was not disclosed, but barangay officials said Roldan set his house on fire due to jealousy.

The BFP-San Lazaro unit took over the investigation.

Following the fire, the adjacent Bahay Tsinoy Museum was closed for inspection and cleaning. 

The displaced residents are taking shelter at the Delpan evacuation complex.

The San Agustin Church mobilized relief operations to deliver food and non-food items to aid the victims.

Manila Mayor Isko Moreno distributed P7.98 million in financial assistance to the affected residents.