CEBU CITY, Philippines—Fire hit a residential area in the Banilad district of Mandaue City past 1 p.m. Saturday.
At least 30 houses were destroyed by the fire of still unknown origin in Sitio Sampaguita, about 60 meters away from the main road.
Most of the affected structures were boarding houses as the area is near schools.
According to Mandaue City Fire Department radio operator Wilfredo Romero, the fire broke out at 1:25 p.m. It was put under control after an hour.
Banilad barangay captain Dianne Bercede, who was on an official trip with other barangay officials, ordered the members of neighborhood watches to help the fire victims and secure their belongings, according to barangay worker Bernadette Ouano.
Ouano said barangay staff also went to the area to facilitate the temporary shelter for the fire victims.