BACOLOD City – A handicapped mother and her three-year-old daughter died in a fire around 8:47 a.m. yesterday, April 17, in Purok Bayanihan, Barangay Taculing.
The 38-year-old Mengel Itchon had a stroke years ago that caused her partial paralysis. Her body was found beside her daughter, Jhanella.
“(When) their charred bodies were found, the daughter was still holding her mother’s hand,” said Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez after visiting the area.
The 84-year-old Arthuro Aplacador, meanwhile, sustained minor burns.
Seven homes were damaged totally, and one partially. The total property losses was estimated at P300,000, according to the initial report of the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office.
Chief Inspector Stephen Jardeleza, fire marshal of the city’s Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), said the fire allegedly started at the house of Nickel Aplacador, but the investigation is still ongoing. A “fire out” was declared at 9:13 a.m.
Because of the incident, Benitez said the whole of Bacolod will now be assessed to identify fire-prone areas.
“Together with the barangay officials, we will identify kon diin ang mga fire-prone areas and take extra measures para indi na maliwat ang natabo sini nga aga,” he added.
Benitez also assured that assistance will be given to the fire victims./PN
