A MAJOR fire broke out in a residential area at the corner of Endrina Street and V. Gustilo Street in Barangay 5, San Carlos City, Negros Occidental, on Wednesday evening.
Initial reports from the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), verified by the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), indicate that at least 106 families, comprising approximately 424 individuals, have been affected by the fire.
The fire victims have sought temporary shelter at the gymnasium of Barangay 4.
San Carlos City Mayor Rene Gustilo, who personally experienced the devastation of losing his ancestral home to a fire in June 2024, expressed deep empathy for the affected families.
“My heart breaks for the families in Endrina, Brgy. 5, whose homes have been lost to the fire,” Mayor Gustilo stated in a social media post. “Having gone through the devastation of losing my own home to a fire earlier this year, I understand the pain and uncertainty you’re feeling right now…In these dark times, we are here for you, and as a community, we will stand together to rebuild what has been lost. You are not alone—we will get through this together.”
The cause of the fire and the extent of the damage are still being investigated. Authorities are working to provide immediate assistance to the affected families, including food, clothing, and temporary shelter.
