In a tragic event late Monday evening, a fire erupted in North Caloocan, devastating at least 17 commercial establishments and market stalls. The blaze, which occurred in Barangay 180, resulted in an estimated P500,000 in damages, according to local reports.

The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) was alerted to the fire, quickly raising the alarm to a second level due to the fire’s intensity and the need for additional resources. Firefighters faced significant challenges due to low water pressure from the hydrants, requiring a larger response to ensure sufficient water supply. Fire Senior Inspector Elyzer Ruben Leal of the BFP highlighted the difficulties posed by the substantial stock of highly flammable materials, including LPG, cooking oil, and rice, which exacerbated the fire’s spread.

Witnesses reported two explosions during the incident, which added to the chaos and urgency. Despite these challenges, the fire was brought under control and fully extinguished after an hour and a half of intense firefighting efforts. Fortunately, no casualties were reported, but the affected business owners now face the daunting task of rebuilding their livelihoods.

This incident follows closely on the heels of the grand opening of SM City Caloocan on May 17, 2024. The new mall, which is the third SM establishment in Caloocan, aims to provide a comprehensive shopping and entertainment experience for the city’s residents. The opening was marked by a series of festive events, including a mall blessing and a vibrant balloon burst ceremony.

Caloocan City has also been making strides in governance and infrastructure development. Recently, the city inaugurated a new Legislative Building on 7th Avenue, providing modern workspaces for the City Council. This development is part of Mayor Dale Gonzalo “Along” Malapitan’s efforts to enhance the city’s governance infrastructure and public services.

Despite these positive developments, the fire incident underscores the challenges the city still faces in ensuring safety and preparedness for such emergencies. Authorities are currently conducting a thorough investigation to determine the exact cause of the fire, with initial reports suggesting it may have originated in a parlor area within the market.

As Caloocan continues to grow and develop, ensuring the safety and resilience of its infrastructure remains a top priority. The community’s response to this disaster, coupled with ongoing efforts to improve city services and facilities, reflects a commitment to building a safer and more prosperous future for all its residents.