The City Government has mobilized assistance to at least 26 families or 85 individuals who were displaced after a fire struck at Medina Drive in Barangay Tumaga, late Monday morning, September 29.

The fire broke out around 11:23am and quickly spread razing five houses, partially damaging one structure. Two vehicles were also destroyed before the fire was contained by firefighters from the City Fire District with support from the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO).

Those affected include three senior citizens, one person with disability (PWD) and 20 children. No casualties were reported.

Barangay Chairperson Jacqueline Lim and her kagawads, in coordination with the Fire District, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD-9), CDRRMO, assisted the residents during the emergency response.

Mayor Khymer Olaso rushed the site to check on the condition of the displaced families and assured them of the city government’s support. The DSWD-9 has begun profiling the affected households to provide food packs, temporary shelter and other basic assistance.

After the mayor’s visit, he proceeded to the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) to personally direct the delivery of the immediate assistance to the victims.

The cause of fire is still under investigation, with witnesses suspect either a heated charger or gasoline as possible source of the conflagration. (Arvin Midel) (photo credits: Kathy Wee Sit)