Fire hits Malacañang Park but presidential guards bar arson probers from entering

A fire of undetermined origin hit the Malacañang Park in Manila on Tuesday but the Presidential Security Group (PSG) allegedly barred arson investigators from entering the area.

 

Bureau of Fire Protection Chief Inspector Bonifacio Carta said they were denied access inside the park even after identifying themselves to the presidential guards.

 

"Nag-third alarm sa Malacañang Park. Ang problema, after I properly identified myself sa guards, pinapa-hold kami. Anong gagawin namin dito?" Carta said in an interview over radio dzBB.

The sentry on duty who denied entry to Carta refused to identify himself.

 

A separate report by dzBB's Benjie Liwanag Jr. said even media representatives who rushed to the area were also denied entry.

 

Meanwhile, the volunteer firefighter group TXTFire tweeted that the fire at Malacañang Park reached the second alarm at 10:23 a.m.

 

However, TXTFire said the fire was put out at about 10:34 a.m. - VVP, GMA News