More than 100 stilt houses were razed after a fire hit an estimated 2,000 square meter area in Barangay Diki, Isabela City, Basilan.

The fire broke out past 3 p.m. on Sunday, February 15, 2026, and was put out after more than an hour.

According to the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), the fire spread quickly as the houses affected were made of light materials.

BFP said the cooperation of residents contributed in containing the fire through a bucket relay system using seawater.

“Wala kasing hydrant doon sa location. Nag-bucket relay yung mga tao, pinuno nila ng tubig yung fire truck at saka yun din ang malaking tulong para hindi maubusan ng tubig at saka continuous yung operation,” BFP Malamawi Acting Station Commander, SFO1 Harold Mariano, said.

No one was reported hurt in the incident.

Investigators said the damage was estimated at more than P520,000.

Authorities are still determining the number of families affected who are taking shelter at the evacuation sites.

The local government extended assistance to the families affected, including hot meals, family food packs, and medical services.

Based on investigation, a resident who allegedly burned garbage triggered the fire, but authorities are still verifying this.

“Yung iba, sabi nila may nagsunog ng basura, mag-rely na lang kami sa kung ano ang investigation na gagawin ng fire arson investigator ng Isabela City Fire Station,” Mariano added.

BFP reminded the public anew to observe fire safety measures such as avoiding electrical overloading, not leaving cooking unattended, and keeping children from playing with lighters or matches.