Fire Hits KGMC Community in Kabasalan, Dozens of Families Affected

Daphne Santuyo

KABASALAN, Zamboanga Sibugay - A fire broke out in the middle of the KGMC community in Purok 5, Barangay Concepcion, Kabasalan late Saturday night, April 4, 2026, affecting dozens of families and destroying several homes.

According to initial reports, the fire started shortly after midnight but was only noticed about 20 minutes later, allowing the flames to spread before residents could respond.

Ka Roberto “Dodoy” Ballon, chairman of the Kapunungan sa mga Gagmay'ng Mananagat sa Concepcion (KGMC), expressed gratitude for the long-established bayanihan spirit in the community. “In emergencies like this, members immediately work together, bringing buckets of water and helping to put out the fire,” he said.

Ballon also expressed relief and gratitude that their cooperative building was not affected by the fire, despite the extensive damage to homes in the community.

Thanks to the swift and coordinated efforts of community members, the fire was quickly contained and prevented from spreading to nearby areas. Later, the firetruck from the Kabasalan Municipal Fire Station arrived on the scene to fully extinguish the flames.

An initial assessment conducted with barangay officials and KGMC leaders showed that at least 12 houses were completely destroyed, while 10 others were partially damaged. Five motorcycles were also burned in the incident.

The fire also affected the livelihoods of about 60 families of fishermen, as their boats, engines, and fishing nets were destroyed.

Ka Ballon said, “Even in the face of this tragedy, we are grateful that our cooperative building was spared, and that everyone worked together to prevent further damage. This shows the strength and unity of our community.”

Early Sunday morning, barangay officials provided assistance to families affected by the fire, while authorities continue to investigate the cause of the incident and residents begin the process of recovery.