A massive fire swept through a coastal community in Bongao, Tawi Tawi late Tuesday night, destroying an estimated 1,000 houses and forcing hundreds of families to flee.
Local authorities from the Bongao Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) reported that the blaze at Barangay Lamion spread rapidly due to strong winds, which fanned the flames across the densely packed residential area.
Bangsamoro Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua expressed his sympathies to the affected residents on Wednesday and confirmed that the regional government has mobilized a swift response to provide relief.
“On behalf of the Bangsamoro Government, I extend my deepest sympathy to the families and residents who have suffered,” Macacua said in a statement.
Emergency teams and social welfare offices are currently coordinating the distribution of food packs, hygiene kits, and temporary shelter materials for the displaced victims.
As of Wednesday afternoon, fire investigators were still determining the cause of the blaze and the total value of property damage.
No fatalities have been reported as of press time, though local officials continue to assess the situation in the coastal village.