By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

A fire engulfed a community of squatters yesterday afternoon at Purok Kahirup B in Barangay Mansilingan, Bacolod City.

Bacolod City Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Fire Marshal, Fire Chief Inspector Publio Ploteña, said they received the fire call around 5:37 p.m.

The fire reportedly originated on the second floor of a home owned by 74-year-old Lydia dela Cruz.

The city fire official said they had a hard time trying to contain the blaze as the area was too congested and houses were constructed directly next to each other.

He also said the terrain was unfavorable for firefighters and were forced to destroy the concrete wall of an unaffected home in order to access the area’s interior.

Others were forced to climb up roofs.

Several residents were trapped, but managed escape after firefighters contained the blaze.

The fire marshal said a majority of the homes, especially those with second floors, were made of light materials.

Firefighters declared a “fire out” by 6:38 p.m.

Initial information gathered by barangay officials and the BFP estimated 12 homes were gutted, affecting 19 families.

Damage was estimated at P250,000.

There were no injuries or deaths recorded, although some elderly residents required first aid to treat hypertension and smoke inhalation.

Following the incident, barangay officials sheltered displaced residents at the Barangay Mansilingan gymnasium.

Local officials have also appealed for donations such as food and drinking water.

BFP is presently investigating the cause of the blaze./DGB, WDJ