P4.8 million lost in Punta Princesa blaze

CEBU, Philippines - At least P4.8 million worth of properties were lost when a fire broke out in Sitio Manggahan, Barangay Punta Princesa, Cebu City late Thursday afternoon.

Investigation conducted by FO3 Antonio Gonzales of Cebu City Fire Department showed that the fire started from the house of certain Jovencio Cabarse, who, at that time, was not in his house when the incident occurred.

In a report over DySS, a loud explosion, believed to be caused by an LPG tank, was allegedly heard coming from the house of Cabarse before the blaze broke out.

The fire, which was reported at 5:25 p.m., totally burned 10 houses, including Cabarse’s, that were mostly made of concrete and light materials. The fire was declared under control 45 minutes later.

All fire tucks in the city were dispatched to the area after the fire was raised to the third alarm at 5:41 p.m.

Cebu City Fire marshal Esmael Codilla said among the main problems they encountered during the incident were narrow pathways leading to the fire scene and crowd control.

The victims were temporarily sheltered at the barangay’s social hall. — Niña G. Sumacot   (FREEMAN NEWS)