Residents flee raging blaze with only clothes on their backs
By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — A massive fire swept through Parola Compound, this city after flames rapidly spread across rows of closely packed houses made of light materials, leaving several families homeless. The blaze eventually reached the area near Task Force Charlie, prompting authorities to tighten security and assist in the evacuation of affected residents.
Residents rushed out of their homes as the fire quickly intensified, with many unable to save their belongings. Some victims escaped carrying only the clothes they were wearing while others tried to rescue whatever valuables they could still grab amid the chaos.
Several displaced families remained near the fire scene, temporarily staying in tents while waiting for assistance and further instructions from authorities.
Despite the danger, some residents made sure to bring along their pets, especially dogs, during the evacuation. According to victims, they wanted every member of the family — including their animals — to survive the tragedy.
Firefighters eventually placed the blaze under control after hours of operation, while authorities continued investigating the cause of the fire and the extent of the damage.
ia/xf
