• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
An estimated P7 million worth of properties went up in flames Monday early morning in Brgy. Cabacungan, La Castellana, Negros Occidental.
The almost two-hour fire, as reported by the Bureau of Fire and Protection, razed 18 market stalls to the ground, although no one was reported hurt.
BFP probers have yet to determine the cause of fire, which also destroyed grocery and variety stores, eateries, a bakeshop, and a feeds supply store.
The fire started at around 1 a.m. and was put out by firefighters two hours later.
In a statement, Fifth District Representative Emilio Bernardino Yulo, whose jurisdiction includes La Castellana, said his office has turned over cash assistance to the affected stall owners and committed to help them recover from their losses.
“I am deeply saddened that 22 stores owned by their respective owners were totally damaged by the fire that lasted for hours. Let us not lose hope, as help is on the way. We will stand with you, and we will rebuild together,” Yulo said.
Mayor Rhummyla Nicor-Mangilimutan thanked Yulo for the immediate aid, adding that the municipal government is also providing assistance to those affected by the fire.* with PNA reports
