Fire hits ammunition depot at Camp Evangelista in Cagayan de Oro

A fire hit the firearms depot of the military in Cagayan de Oro City, Misamis Oriental a few minutes after 12 midnight.

Based on initial reports, the ammunition storage facility of the Army's 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division had a fire incident.

There was a series of explosions heard at the site.

In a statement, the Philippine Army said the fire, which was followed by loud explosions, broke out at the ammunition complex of the 10th Forward Service Support Unit  at Camp Evangelista.

While no soldiers were injured, first responders brought three civilians with minor injuries to Camp Evangelista Station Hospital for treatment. They are now in stable condition, it added.

The fire was put out around 3 a.m. and the authorities cordoned off the 500 meter radius around the incident area.

At least 49 families or 233 individuals residing near the ammunition complex were temporarily sheltered at the 4th Infantry Division’s gymnasium and the Baranagy Patag covered court.

The military provided stress debriefing and psychological support for these families. Soldiers are coordinating with the local social welfare and development office to assist the displaced families.

According to the Army, it will cooperate with the investigation of the Bureau of Fire Protection to determine the cause of the incident.

Army’s explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) experts advised to have a cool-off period before entering the firearms depot  to avoid possible residual fires or explosions.

“The Army leadership assures continued assistance to the displaced families and injured civilians. The Army will launch an internal investigation aimed at preventing similar incidents in the future,” it said.

Interviewed on Dobol B TV, 4ID’s public affairs office chief Major Francisco Garello said the concerned area Building No. 5 contained 155 mm Howitzer rounds and small firearms ammunition.

“Sa area na 'yun, may naka-stock doon na more than 130 na 155 mm Howitzer round ammunitions (More than 130 150 mm Howitzer round ammunitions were stocked in that area ),” he said. — Joviland Rita/BAP/RSJ, GMA News