Fire hits business establishments in Iloilo City

A big fire razed business establishments along Iloilo City’s old commercial area Friday evening, Jan. 24, 2014. (Photo from Facebook page of Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog)

ILOILO CITY–A large fire razed at least five commercial buildings along Iloilo’s old commercial district on Friday night on the eve of the Dinagyang Festival.

Firefighters with 12 firetrucks were still battling the fire as of 9: 18 p.m. at Aldequer and Iznart Streets, said Chief Inspector Gilbert Gorero, public information officer of the Iloilo City Police Office.

Gorero said the fire that began around 7:40 p.m.  and had gobbled the Helen Marketing, AH Trading, Ledi Supermart and Yangkee Trading.

Most of the establishments in the area sell groceries and ready-to-wear clothes.

Firefighters are having difficulty putting out the fire which is being fanned by strong winds in the adjoining buildings.

The source and cause of fire were still unknown.

The cultural presentation Kasadyahan Festival is set on Saturday followed by the Dinagyang Ati tribe contest on Sunday.