Massive fire leaves 2,000 families homeless in Philippines's Tondo; chilling videos shows destruction (WATCH)

By Shweta Kumari | First Published Nov 24, 2024, 3:31 PM IST

At least 2,000 families were left homeless after a massive fire tore through the residential community of Isla Puting Bato in Tondo, Manila, on Sunday.

At least 2,000 families were left homeless after a massive fire tore through the residential community of Isla Puting Bato in Tondo, Manila, on Sunday. According to Senior Inspector Alejandro Ramos, intelligence and investigation chief of the Manila Fire Department, the blaze destroyed approximately a thousand homes when it broke out around 8 in the morning.

The Philippine Air Force also deployed two aircraft to assist in the firefighting efforts, while four additional fire boats were utilized.

Ramos said most of the homes in the area were made of light, combustible materials, as many residents are informal settlers. The strong winds in the coastal community also contributed to the rapid spread of the fire.

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Several videos surfaced on social media, showing thick plumes of smoke rising in the sky as flames raged.

WATCH: Firefighters respond to a fifth alarm fire that broke out at a residential area in Isla Puting Bato in Tondo, Manila, on Sunday, Nov. 24. | 🎥: Manila DRRM Office/Facebook pic.twitter.com/8wZXtOREqs

— Inquirer (@inquirerdotnet)

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Some reports claimed the massive fire claimed six lives however no official confirmation was issued for the same.

Huge fire in Isla Puting Bato, Tondo, Manila 2024 Nov 24 affecting at least 3,000 residents. pic.twitter.com/3Vn3vEE6ko

— Richard A. Reyes (@richardreyesph)

Firefighting teams were rushed to the spot, prompting a response from fire marshals across the entire Metro Manila region to douse the flames.

Fire hits Isla Puting Bato in Tondo, Manila on Sunday (Nov. 24, 2024). The Bureau of Fire Protection said Task Force Charlie was declared 11:51 a.m. pic.twitter.com/9LQysIDAxT

— Philippine News Agency (@pnagovph)

A massive fire broke out in a residential area at Isla Puting Bato in Tondo, Manila on Sunday, November 24.

Firefighters and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) are working together to suppress the fire due to its rapid spread, caused by strong winds.

📷: John Louie Abrina | MB pic.twitter.com/Hat2fIUfWF

— Manila Bulletin News (@manilabulletin)

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