Fire hits at least 100 houses in Cebu

CEBU CITY — At least 100 houses were razed to the ground in a fire that broke out in a densely-populated residential area, reportedly on a lot owned by Mandaue City Mayor Jonas Cortes, in Sitio Alliance of Two Hearts, Barangay Basak, Mandaue City shortly before 11 a.m. on Monday.

 
The fire destroyed residential structures, a mix of concrete and light materials, in just 30 minutes as strong winds fanned the flames, according to F02 Antonio Montajes of the Mandaue City Fire Station.

 
The fire, which broke out around 10:50 a.m., was believed to have started in a housed owned by Conchita Juntilla who allegedly left unattended an open fire that she lit to cook food, Montajes said.

 
He said firefighters had difficulty reaching the area as it was surrounded by other residential communities and the roads leading to the site were narrow, making it hard for firetrucks to get inside.

 
Mayor Cortes was at the City Hall when he heard the news and immediately proceeded to the area. JE