1,000 houses damaged in Tawi-Tawi fire, says PCG

About 1,000 houses in Barangay Lamion, Bongao in Tawi-Tawi were totally damaged by fire that hit the area on Tuesday evening, according to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).

"Personnel from Coast Guard Station (CGS) Central Tawi-Tawi immediately proceeded to the area and conducted necessary assistance. After an hour, the fire was declared under control and subsequently extinguished," the PCG said.

The Tawi-Tawi station reported that personnel from OpCon Units and Coast Guard Sub-Station Bongao and necessary equipment were deployed to "support coordinated land and water operations, including the safe evacuation of residents, ensuring maritime safety, and assisting other responding agencies during the fire incident."

These agencies include law enforcement agencies, the Municipal and Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Offices (MDRRMO and PDRRMO), and the Provincial Government.

"The fire quickly spread due to strong winds, affecting closely built residential stilt houses in the area."

The affected families were brought to the Coast Guard station in Tawi-Tawi for temporary shelter and assistance.

There were no casualties reported. — BAP, GMA Integrated News