At least 11 classrooms at a school in Barangay Poblacion, Sominot, Zamboanga del Sur were razed by fire evening on Tuesday, March 17, 2026.

The fire broke out at Sominot National High School around 6 p.m. and was declared fire out after an hour.

Authorities said the fire spread quickly due to the structure’s light materials and old condition.

Residents tried to save school properties but were unable to do so as the flames spread rapidly.

“Yung building, matanda na ba. Yung kisame, light materials lang gawa,” fire investigator, FO1 Ian Vincent Salasayo, said.

Based on investigation, the fire gutted several facilities, including the old library, science laboratory, dressmaking room, journalism room, school clinic, and other classrooms.

The cost of damage was estimated at more than P3.3 million.

No injuries were reported.

BFP is still investigating the cause of the fire.

The school has implemented alternative delivery modes of learning after the incident.

Authorities reminded the public to observe fire safety measures, including checking electrical connections before leaving rooms and ensuring children are not allowed to play with matches or candles.

“I-double check natin ang mga nakasaksak bago tayo lumabas ng room. At saka ang mga bata, ‘wag natin pabayaan na maglaro ng posporo or magsindi ng kandila,” Salasayo added.