14 Houses Razed in Afternoon Fire in Barangay Makilas, Ipil

Daphne Santuyo

A fire incident struck Purok Rose in Barangay Makilas, Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay on the afternoon of April 13, leaving at least 14 houses destroyed and several families displaced. According to authorities, the fire broke out at around 3:06 PM. The incident was reported to the Ipil Municipal Police Station (MPS) at approximately 3:30 PM through a cellphone call from a concerned citizen.

Police personnel, led by PMAJ Marjan M. Sali, immediately responded and arrived at the scene by 3:40 PM, coordinating with the Ipil Municipal Fire Station for fire suppression efforts. The blaze was declared under control at around 4:15 PM.

Initial reports indicate that the fire started in one of five residential houses owned by Michael Tabo-Tabo, Jenelyn Bernos, Maria Munsalod, Pardonya Alcala, and Wilfredo Dorimon. However, due to the houses being constructed mostly of light and mixed materials, the flames quickly spread to nearby structures.

By the time responders arrived, several homes were already engulfed in fire, making containment difficult. The rapid spread resulted in a total of 14 houses being burned before the fire was fully extinguished. As of this writing, authorities have yet to determine the cause of the fire. A thorough investigation is ongoing to establish its origin and to assess the total value of damages incurred.

The Bureau of Fire Protection has assigned FO2 Harrem P. Mayuela as the investigator-on-case, while Police Staff Sergeant Levi Ramos is handling the police investigation. No casualties have been reported as of this writing, but affected families are currently being assisted as local officials work to provide immediate relief and support.

Residents are urged to remain vigilant and observe fire safety measures, especially in areas with closely built homes made of light materials.