Mall worker brings to 38 the fatalities of Davao mall fire

DAVAO CITY – The city government has updated its list of fatalities in the NCCC Mall fire after 38 bodies were found – up from 37 as earlier reported.

In an advisory at 5 a.m., Wednesday, the City Information Office said the number went up when the remains of NCCC worker Melvin Gaa was recovered late Tuesday.

The rest of the fatalities were workers of data provider Survey Systems International or SSI.

“Gaa was included on the list after his body was recovered. As of 9:20 p.m., he was among the list of victims already identified and processed by authorities,” said city information chief Jefry Tupas through FB chat.

Out of the 38 fire victims, only two bodies had not been properly identified.

Forensic experts said they had to make sure which body belonged to Mikko Demafeliz or Alexandra Moreno.

But they said they might have to rely on DNA test results if they could not find other secondary identifiers such as pieces of jewelry.

A DNA result could be obtained after 30 days yet as samples had to be sent to Manila for matching.

The processed and identified victims were Gaa, Jeffrey Sismar, Mary Louielyn Bongcayao, Kurtchin Angela Bangoy, Joy Pabelonia, Christen Garzon and Jim Benedict Quimsing.

The other identified victims were: Jonas Basalan, Jessica Samontina, Venus Joy Quimpo, Jimboy Limosnero, Christine Joy Ferraren, Rosyl Montanez, Missy Rose Artiaga, Rhenzi Nova Muyco, Ivan Nebelle Roble, Elyn Joy Yorsua,  Shiela Mae Bacaling, Roderick Antipuesto, Nancy Loy Abad, Jessica Solis, Charlyn Liwaya, Regine Generales, Gantioco Celestial, Apple Jane Celades, Ian Kiem Adlawan, Lister Jade Entera, and Analiza Piñajiro.

Christine Alviola, Roderick Constantinopla, Dresiree Gayle Zacarias, Johani Matundo, Iana Apalacio, Maryjoy Daloro, Randy Balcao and Janine Joy Obo. /cbb