Nearly 1,000 residents lost their homes after a massive fire swept through Sitio Naba and Sitio Puntod in Barangay Mambaling, Cebu during the early hours of Sunday, March 2. The fire was reported at 1:14 a.m. and quickly escalated to the third alarm before firefighters brought it under control by 3:05 a.m. According to the Department of Social Welfare and Services, the fire destroyed 177 houses, leaving 195 families—or approximately 875 individuals—without shelter. Authorities estimate P1.5 million in property damage.
Initial reports indicate that the fire started in the house of a resident identified as Jorani Daomani, but the exact cause remains under investigation. A 32-year-old man suffered burns and was immediately given medical attention. Evacuees are currently housed at Viking Gym in Barangay Mambaling, where they have received initial aid. Local authorities and relief organizations are working to provide further assistance. Officials urge the public to exercise caution and follow fire safety measures to prevent similar incidents.
