BACOLOD CITY – A swift-moving early morning fire on Friday destroyed 20 homes in Purok Tahong, Barangay 2, displacing 20 families or 50 individuals. Mayor Greg Gasataya personally led the city’s emergency response, ensuring immediate care and support for those affected. The fire broke out at approximately 2:14 AM, with the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) estimating property damage at roughly ₱125,000. Arriving at the scene before office hours to assess the situation and check on residents, Mayor Greg directed the city government to mobilize resources immediately. The local government unit (LGU) distributed food packs and hygiene kits on-site to address immediate needs, with additional supplies to follow from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) after assessment. The DSSD also deployed social workers to conduct a comprehensive census and enroll all affected individuals for further financial and social assistance. Displaced families have been moved to a designated evacuation center at the Barangay Hall, where the city will monitor their health and well-being for at least five days until they secure alternative housing. “Our priority is to make sure that no one is left behind after such a traumatic event,” Mayor Greg stated during his visit. “They are allowed to go back here in the area if they wish to still live here, but personally seeing their situation, living beside the creek, it is very dangerous. That’s why I am already in contact with the Bacolod Housing Authority to check if there are still slots left in the relocation site for those who want to transfer. Because these are the very same people who were badly affected by the recent typhoons.” BFP Arson Investigator FO2 Rolin Paulan reported the fire originated from a rental property owned by Marcelino Pitogo. Initial findings suggest a candle may have been the cause—due to a lack of electricity at the origin point—though investigators are also looking into faulty electrical wiring in the surrounding area as a possible factor. Thanks to the Bacolod City Fire Station’s rapid response—arriving within minutes of the call—the blaze was declared “Fire Out” at 2:47 AM, preventing further spread in the densely populated neighborhood. Critically, no casualties or injuries were reported. The City Government of Bacolod continues to coordinate closely with Barangay 2 officials to deliver ongoing aid and begin the recovery process for residents. (Bacolod City Communications Office)