A fire near a public market in Sta. Cruz, Zambales burned for more than two hours displacing over 70 families.
Some evacuees refused to leave the site, fearing theft of their belongings.
“Nagbigay din kami ng pagkain at meron ding nagbibigay na NGOs,” Felicidad Tongson, Sta. Cruz MSWD Officer, said.
Authorities are still investigating the cause of the fire.
In Ballesteros, Cagayan, a family in Barangay Nararagan lost their home, a 10-wheel truck, a pickup, and two motorcycles to a fire that started early morning on January 26.
The fire reportedly began in the truck, but its exact cause is under investigation.
The family, now staying with relatives, pleaded for help.
“Humihingi kami ng tulong sa mga may magandang puso na tulungan kaming maka-recover. Wala po kaming naisalbang gamit, Sir,” Remelyne Agustin, the homeowner, said.
The Bureau of Fire Protection estimated the damage in Ballesteros at over P2 million, including P300,000 in cash destroyed in the blaze.
SFO3 Darwin Dante Agatep urged the public to practice fire safety daily.
“Ugaliin natin na araw-araw ang pag-iingat lalong-lalo na sa sunog,” Agatep said.
Both local governments are providing assistance to the affected families.