By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

At least seven houses were destroyed, while four others were damaged, following a fire late Tuesday night at Purok Paloma in Barangay 16, Bacolod City.

Based on records released by the Bacolod City Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), the fire reportedly started in a house owned by Cecilia Ballesteros, which quickly spread to other homes which were made of light materials.

BFP-Bacolod Fire Marshal, Fire Chief Inspector Publio Ploteña, said the fire was quelled 45 minutes after it started, with damages estimated at P150,000.

Ploteña also said arson investigators are presently probing the incident.

The city government, through its Department of Social Services and Development, has also provided aid to victims.

Bacolod City Mayor Evelio Leonardia said owners of destroyed houses will receive P10,000 in cash assistance, while those with damaged homes will receive P5,000./DGB, WDJ