By Jennifer P. Rendon
A fire broke out early Sunday afternoon, Feb. 16, in the densely populated village of Buntatala, Jaro, Iloilo City, destroying 10 houses.
The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP)-Iloilo City said it received the alarm at 1:58 p.m. and declared the fire out an hour later.
However, the blaze had already gutted the homes of Jerry Sonon, Lagrimas Palomo, Rema Sonon, alias Ambalete, alias Rene, Lorena Fojas, alias Julie, Soledad Hortillosa, Juanito Tayona, and Rosemarie Tayona.
Initial reports indicated that seven houses were totally destroyed, while three were partially damaged.
The fire displaced 19 families, affecting 62 individuals.
Authorities said the fire originated from the house of Lagrimas Palomo, 64, before spreading to adjacent homes.
A Honda Wave 125 motorcycle was also burned.
Investigators are looking into an electrical short circuit as the possible cause.
No injuries or fatalities were reported.
