Congestion in slums blocks 'firefighting'

By Jeehan V. Fernandez

Firefighters usually found their way hard into the fire scene due to the congested path in the squatters' area.

City Fire Marshal Jeremy Diaz said it is the reason why the firefighters have the hard time putting off the blaze, particularly in crowded areas. He added that strong winds also adversely affect the firefighting operation.

Yesterday, a huge fire razed 14 houses in Brgy. Jalandoni Estate, Lapuz, Lapaz, Iloilo City . Diaz noted that the city's fire department received the call at around 8:15 a.m. while the conflagration was put down at 9:25 a.m.

The fire totally burned the houses of Bonifacio Terrania, Verginia Demaclid, Alfie Manikan, Maritess Gabriel, Felly Sevillejo, Loreto Villasoto, Burt Villasoto, Adelaida Lorca, Poreta Ofianga, Gregorio Escala, Lucy Escala and Lucia Necasario.

Diaz said the city's Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) is yet to determine the cause of fire and damage cost as of presstime. He stressed the BFP would also verify the “explosion” overheard by residents which could be the origin of the flame.

Fire investigators FO3 Norman C. Valenzuela and SPO1 Antonio Patiño, Jr. in a report, noted the fire originated in the bedroom occupied by Richard and Gretchen Cañite at the second floor of house owned by Bonifacio Terrania.

Diaz said that houses in the area are made up of light materials and the place is considered as “fire-prone”.

Meanwhile, Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas assured the city government will give financial assistance to the fire victims through the City Social Welfare and Development Office.

Treñas also called on the city residents to be extra careful and vigilant this summer season in order to avert fire incidents.