Iriga City – On Friday, June 14, 2024, at approximately 10:00 PM, a fire broke out in Barangay San Roque, Iriga City, resulting in the tragic death of a 68-year-old resident. The fire also affected five families and three business stall owners.

The incident originated in a large house constructed primarily of light materials. These materials, which formed the living rooms for these affected families, resulted in the rapid spread of the fire. Three small business stalls located nearby were also burned down. The fire continued to rage for over a couple of hours.

According to the Bureau of Fire Protection and some witnesses, the 68-year-old victim had initially evacuated but unnoticeably re-entered the burning house in an attempt to save personal belongings. Tragically, the individual was unable to escape the intensifying flames and succumbed to the fire despite the rescue efforts by the authorities. In-depth investigation by the BFP as to the cause of the fire is still ongoing.

DSWD FO V Regional Director Norman Laurio immediately instructed DRMD Chief Claudio Villareal Jr. to deliver the relief assistance and to personally supervise the distribution of family food packs and essential non-food items, amounting to ₱57,163.58 to the affected families and individuals.

Additionally, the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) Team, alongside the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), and DSWD City Action Team (CAT), conducted thorough assessments for the prompt provision of financial assistance amounting to Php10,000 each displaced families and stall owners.

The AICS team also facilitated the needed documents for the issuance of Php40,000 worth Guarantee Letter (GL) for funeral assistance to the casualty of the incident.

DSWD Bicol will also be providing recovery and rehabilitation assistance of their livelihoods amounting to Php15,000-20,000 under the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) of the Department.

This holistic approach of providing fast and complete assistance will ensure immediate relief and recovery of those severely affected by this fire incident.###