Fire leaves 4 hurt, P44M properties damaged in Biliran capital

TACLOBAN CITY — A major fire struck the commercial district in Naval town, the capital of Biliran province, at around 12:02 p.m. on Thursday, April 9. 

The cause of the fire is still under investigation by the local fire office.

The blaze, which escalated to a fourth alarm, gutted the two-story Naval Mall and affected more than six business establishments located along Sto. Rosario Street, according to the Naval Fire Office’s initial report.

Provincial Fire Marshal Zardoz Abella said the incident injured two firefighters, one fire volunteer, and a civilian.

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The blaze was declared under control at around 2:40 p.m., with fire stations from nearby towns assisting the Naval Fire Office in putting out the fire.

“We are still conducting our investigation as to the cause of the fire, but initially, there was information suggesting it may have been caused by a generator set in one of the affected business establishments,” Abella said.

“However, we are still gathering more information, and our investigation is ongoing to determine the exact cause of the fire,” he added.

It was learned that Naval had a power interruption at the time of the incident.

Based on initial assessment, the damage caused by the fire exceeded P44 million, although this figure may increase as further investigation and assessment continue.

Meanwhile, Mayor Gretchen Espina said the local government is making efforts to assist displaced business owners.

She also reminded residents to remain vigilant to prevent similar incidents. /das