Fatal Fire in Iloilo City Kills Elderly Woman, Injures Three Others

ILOILO CITY — A fire that erupted in a residential area of Brgy. Oñate De Leon, Mandurriao district, on Saturday morning claimed the life of a 75-year-old woman and injured three others.

The blaze started at approximately 8:57 a.m., trapping the elderly victim inside her home on the second floor. Firefighters brought the fire under control by 9:16 a.m., fully extinguishing it within the next 12 minutes.

The fire destroyed the deceased's residence and caused partial damage to a neighboring house. Two families, totaling six individuals including a child and two elderly persons, were displaced by the incident. The estimated property damage amounts to around ₱288,000.

Among the injured were a 65-year-old woman who suffered second-degree burns on her nape, left arm, and head, a 49-year-old man, and a 12-year-old boy who both sustained first-degree burns. All three were promptly transported to the West Visayas Medical Center for treatment, with the elderly woman admitted to the facility.

Iloilo City Fire Marshall, Fire Superintendent Melanie Habawel, urged residents to ensure that living spaces for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, persons with disabilities, and children are located near exits for easy evacuation. She emphasized, "They should not be left on their own. They have to be with an able companion to assist them in times of emergency."

Preliminary investigations suggest the fire may have been ignited by an unattended candle. Samples from the scene have been sent to the Bureau of Fire Protection's national laboratory for further examination.

The displaced families are currently receiving support from the City Social Welfare and Development Office and are temporarily staying with relatives.