Manila Central Post Office fire an ‘accident’ —BFP

The Manila Central Post Office fire was caused by an "accident", which started from a discharged car battery that heated up, according to the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP). 

In a report in GMA Integrated News’ "Unang Balita" on Tuesday, the BFP said fire started from a car battery that discharged, heated up, and caused an explosion around other combustible materials in the Mega Manila Storage Room.

The materials stored in the room were office supplies, thinner, and paint.

According to the BFP, the fire at the Manila Central Post Office is now considered a "closed case".

Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost) Postmaster General Luis Carlos said they accept the result of the BFP's investigation.

The PHLPost will now focus on the recovery and rehabilitation of the burned historic building, he added.

On May 21, a fire hit the Manila Central Post Office, which started in the basement of the building and immediately reached the top floors.

The fire reached first alarm at 11:41 p.m. on May 21 and general alarm, or its highest fire alarm level, at 5:54 a.m. on May 22.

After more than 30 hours, the fire at the Manila Central Post Office was declared out on May 23.

Eighteen people, most of them firefighters, were reported hurt. Their injuries ranged from lacerations to first-degree burns. Some casualties also felt dizziness and chest pain.

At least two structures inside the building were burned and the estimated cost of damage was P300 million, according to the BFP. —Joviland Rita/ VAL, GMA Integrated News