Fire incidents surge, warns BFP

The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) on Saturday said fire incidents in the first two months of 2026 rose compared with the same period last year.

“From 1 January to 28 February this year, compared with last year, incidents slightly increased by 8 percent, which is why we continue to double our fire prevention campaigns,” BFP spokesperson Fire Superintendent Anthony Arroyo said in a radio interview.

He reported 2,699 fire incidents so far this year, with single- and two-family dwellings accounting for most affected structures, totaling 1,407.

“[T]he majority of which occurred in residential areas,” he added, noting fires spread faster in congested neighborhoods.

Arroyo cited faulty electrical wiring and open flames as the leading causes, urging the public to have electrical systems inspected by licensed electricians.

He also reminded citizens to remain vigilant during the dry season as the country observes Fire Prevention Month this March.

On Saturday, Manila launched the observance with a motorcade led by the city’s Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Department.

Meanwhile, four families were left homeless after a fire razed a two-story house on Kapt. Sindo Street in Barangay Jesus Dela Peña, Marikina City, early Saturday morning.

According to the BFP, the fire broke out around 4:29 a.m. and quickly reached the first alarm.

Authorities said the fire originated on the second floor of the house, particularly within the bedroom area. Some residents reported smelling smoke before the fire broke out.

The house, divided into eight compartments, was occupied by four families, totaling 10 individuals. No casualties or injuries were reported. The estimated cost of damage reached 225,000 pesos, covering a total burned area of 158 square meters.

A total of 18 fire trucks from the BFP and volunteer groups responded to the incident, along with an ambulance.