A missionary school in Davao City was gutted by fire shortly before midday on Thursday, June 20, 2024.

In a report by GMA Super Radyo Davao, the caretaker said the fire may have started from a room where a television was turned on.

The caretaker raised the possibility that the fire may be electrical related as there was no one else in the building.

Authorities are investigating the incident to determine the actual cause of the fire and the cost of damage.

According to the Davao City Fire District, the number of fire incidents in the city has gone up by 37 percent.

From January to June 18, 2024, up to 481 fire incidents were recorded and the total damage has reached more than P59 million.

Of 481, nearly 300 were non-structural fire like grass fires; 139 were residential fire; and 43 were other non-residential fire.

Authorities reminded the public anew to be extra careful by avoiding improper disposal and throwing of cigarette butts; overloading electrical outlets; not to leave cooking unattended; and not allow children to play with fire.

(with reports from John Ryan Calonia, GMA Supe Radyo Davao)