Fire destroys dozens of homes in Philippines, over 300 displaced

A massive fire tore through a densely populated neighborhood in the Philippines, destroying dozens of homes and leaving more than 300 people displaced, local media reported Wednesday.

The blaze, which broke out late Tuesday in the Barangay area of Bacolod City, affected residents of Purok Ramon Magsaysay Dawis, according to the Inquirer.net, citing Richelle Verdeprado-Mangga, the head of the city’s Department of Social Services and Development.

At least 103 families with 307 members were forced from their homes.

Initial assessments indicate that 27 houses were destroyed while 10 others sustained damage, though officials warned the number could rise as verification continues.

Emergency response teams have been deployed to assist affected families, many of whom have been temporarily relocated to evacuation centers.