Fire Destroys Homes in Manila's Port Area

Firefighters work to extinguish a blaze that destroyed several homes in Manila's Port Area on Friday afternoon. Several families were left homeless after a fire tore through a residential area in Barangay 650, Port Area, Manila, on Friday afternoon, Oct. 17.

According to the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), the blaze started at around 1:30 p.m. and quickly spread, fanned by strong winds. Emergency responders rushed to the scene to battle the flames and prevent further damage to the densely populated community.

The BFP reported that multiple homes were completely destroyed in the fire. No casualties have been reported so far, but several residents were treated for minor injuries and smoke inhalation. Authorities are still investigating the cause of the fire, though initial reports suggest it may have started in an electrical wiring.

The Manila City government has set up a temporary evacuation center to assist displaced families. Social welfare workers are on-site providing food, water, and other basic necessities to those affected by the blaze.

"We are coordinating with various agencies to ensure that the affected families receive immediate assistance," Manila City Mayor Honey Lacuna-Pangan said in a statement. "Our priority is to provide them with shelter and support during this difficult time."

The fire serves as a stark reminder of the risks posed by informal settlements in urban areas, where many families live in close proximity and often lack access to proper fire safety measures. Local officials are now calling for stricter enforcement of fire safety codes in residential areas to prevent similar incidents in the future.

For more information on how you can help the affected families, you can contact the Manila City Social Welfare and Development Office.

Read the original report on Manila Bulletin.