A tragic fire engulfed six homes occupied by 12 families in Barangay 595, Santa Mesa, Manila on Friday night, claiming the life of a 72-year-old man. The blaze broke out shortly after 9 p.m. and was raised to the second alarm, prompting a response from 35 fire trucks.
“Unfortunately, we have one confirmed casualty,” said Fire Senior Inspector Cesar Babante, commander of BFP Manila Station 2. “According to witnesses, the victim had already escaped but went back inside, as reported by a neighbor.”
Relatives held 71-year-old Lolita Dineros in tears after confirming that her husband, William, did not survive.
“Whenever he drank, he would fall into a deep sleep. My grandchild tried to wake him, called out to him… but he must’ve been too drunk and too drowsy,” Dineros said in grief.
She added, “The stairs were already on fire. One of our grandchildren, who was with him, had no choice but to jump to escape… but he was left behind.”
Harvey Mendoza, another resident, acted quickly when he saw thick smoke. He grabbed his two dogs and their essentials before rushing out.
“We saved the dogs, their food and water, because they’re not just pets — they’re family,” Mendoza shared.
The fire caused an estimated ₱250,000 in damage. Firefighters struggled to contain the flames due to narrow access roads leading to the source of the blaze.
Barangay 595 Chairman Elmo Canino assured the affected residents that support is on the way.
“We’ve already prepared the evacuation center and food for those displaced. We’ll do everything we can to provide help,” he said.
Authorities are still investigating the cause of the fire, which was declared fully extinguished around 10 p.m.