A fire broke out at the Old Public Market in San Carlos City, Pangasinan at around 5 a.m., quickly spreading and destroying more than 200 stalls.

Most stalls were still closed when the fire broke out, forcing responders to break into the structures to control the blaze.

One of the survivors, Flox Guling, who was sleeping at the market, described his narrow escape.

"Paglabas ko umuusok na doon sa kabila, tapos sa pwesto ko umuusok na rin, sabay bukas [ako] ng pintuan," he said.

Terry Doria, a vendor, lost two stalls, including her eatery.

"Doon lang kami kumukuha ng income sa pwesto, tapos itong canteen. Wala na; sunog na talaga — mamumulubi na naman," Doria said.

Another vendor, Meddy Arroyo, managed to save only a crucifix from her stall.

"Dumating ako dito, wala na. Ito lang ang naisala ko," Arroyo said.

The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) is still investigating the fire to determine the cause.

Some believe the fire may have started from a cellphone.

"May haka-haka na sinasabing galing daw sa isang stall — na ‘yung usok ay galing sa cellphone. Ibang-iba pa rin ang official statement ng BFP, doon tayo babase," Vice Mayor Joseres “Bogs” Resuello said.

The local government unit (LGU) has prepared assistance for those affected by the fire.