11 hurt in Navotas fire - Red Cross

MANILA, Philippines – Eleven people, including two minors, were hurt after a fire ravaged a squatters' area in San Rafael village, Navotas City Wednesday afternoon, the Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC) said. The PNRC's Emergency Response Unit said the victims suffered injuries ranging from lacerations, blisters, and minor burns. All but one — Gina Mercado, 35, who was brought to the Tondo General Hospital for a deep gash on her right foot — were treated by Red Cross volunteers on-site. The PNCR said those injured are: • Carlos James Garcia, 10; • Joshua Cargota, 15; • Robert Riza, 21; • Ryan Guingarta, 27; • George Ramilio, 27; • Maria Fe Ferenios, 27; • Jobert Mercado, 28; • Gina Mercado, 35; • Ronaldo Wayon, 35; • Lopero Risemdal, 38; and • Pablo Riza, 60. Authorities are still conducting an investigation to determine the cause of the fire which started around 1:45 p.m. and lasted for about an hour until volunteers and units from the Bureau of Fire Protection put the fire under control. - Johanna Camille Sisante, GMANews.TV