BACOLOD CITY – Mayor Greg Gasataya led the distribution of relief goods and deployed essential services to families affected by the recent fire in Purok Ramon Magsaysay, Dawis, Barangay 14.

The response effort, carried out in coordination with the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (DRRMO) and the Department of Social Services and Development (DSSD), aims to provide immediate relief to the displaced residents.

A total of 71 families or 289 individuals were affected by the incident. To address their immediate needs, the city government distributed 71 food packs and 71 water containers, along with ready-to-eat meals. Additionally, 50 folding beds were deployed to the evacuation center located at ETCS III, and 200 liters of drinking water were delivered to sustain daily needs.

To ensure a steady supply of clean water, Mayor Gasataya deployed the city’s first water filtration truck to the area. The unit has a capacity of 5,000 liters and can dispense safe, potable water to at least 250 containers, guaranteeing continuous access for the victims. Among those severely affected is Celda Sorillo, 57, whose house was completely destroyed.

According to her, the fire started from a neighboring house and spread rapidly, leaving them with nothing to salvage. She shared that their home had only recently been repaired less than a month ago, making the loss even more devastating.

Mayor Gasataya assured the victims that financial assistance will be provided  based on the extent of damage to their properties. “Those whose homes are totally damaged will receive ₱15,000. Those partially damaged will receive ₱10,000, while renters and sharers will receive ₱5,000,” the Mayor said. He added that the city is working to expedite the process.

“As long as you comply quickly with the required documents, we will do our best to release the aid, hopefully by early next week,” he said. Based on the initial investigation by the Bacolod Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), the fire was caused by an unattended electric fan.

The incident damaged a total of 32 houses – 22 totally destroyed and 10 partially damaged – with estimated property losses reaching ₱4.5 million. Fortunately, no injuries or fatalities were reported. Authorities are currently conducting final validation to determine the full extent of the damage. (Bacolod City Communications Office)