ROXAS CITY, Capiz – In a resilient display of recovery, 103 families whose lives were upended by a devastating fire in Roxas City’s Barangay 7 began anew as they moved into their new homes at Tanza Ville on March 6.
Roxas City Mayor Ronnie Dadivas, alongside city officials, marked the occasion, heralding a collaborative effort to rebuild and support the affected community.
Also present were Vice Governor James “Mitang” Magbanua, representing Governor Fredenil Oto Castro, alongside Cong. James “Jojo” Ang of Uswag-Ilonggo Partylist, Board Member Trina Marie Ignacio, Paolo Gerardo Roxas (son of former Senator Mar Roxas), and representatives from local cooperative and civic organizations.
In a modest yet heartfelt ceremony on the previous day, 97 of the housing units were blessed by three Catholic priests, marking a new beginning for the fire-struck community.
The recipients of these homes were the unfortunate victims of a devastating blaze that tore through their neighborhood on the afternoon of February 27. This incident resulted in 377 individuals from 103 families losing their homes, with the majority now accommodated in the new housing provided.
Mayor Dadivas presided over the blessing of the units provided by the National Housing Authority (NHA), a testament to the community’s collective effort and spirit of “Bayanihan.”
Before this transition, the fire victims found temporary refuge at the Rufina Andarada Santos Memorial School.
The fire, which escalated to third-alarm status, is believed to have started from unattended firewood in one of the houses and quickly spread due to the flammable nature of the surrounding structures.
Ongoing investigations aim to confirm the cause and quantify the total damages, already estimated to be around P1.5 million.
In addition to housing support, Mayor Dadivas has committed to financial assistance from the local government, amounting to P5,000 per family, with an additional P20,000 promised. The Uswag Ilonggo Partylist, along with other agencies, individuals, and businesses, are also extending their aid.
This tragedy has not only resulted in loss of property but also in the heartrending loss of two senior citizens, including one with disabilities, who tragically could not evacuate in time.
