A massive fire broke out on Wednesday morning, August 6, in a densely populated residential area near Aroma Compound along Road 10 in Barangay 105, Tondo, Manila, injuring two firefighters and one resident, and affecting around 1,500 families.
Thick plumes of smoke billowed into the sky, prompting a swift and large-scale response from firefighting teams.
According to the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), the injured individuals sustained minor burns.
The blaze was first reported at 9:47 a.m. and immediately raised to the first alarm.
Within just one minute, it escalated to the second alarm as flames spread rapidly through the area, engulfing closely packed shanties made of lightweight materials.
By 10:17 a.m., the BFP raised the response level to Task Force Alpha and Task Force Bravo and Charlie at 10:57 p. m., mobilizing firefighting units from across the Metro Manila region.
The incident caused long traffic jams in the nearby streets.
The Manila Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development worked to evacuate residents as they fled their homes, carrying children, elderly family members, pets, and a few salvaged possessions.
The local units have set up temporary evacuation centers and prepared relief assistance.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation. (Diann Calucin)
