What was anticipated to be a joyful entry into 2024 turned into a nightmare for a family in Barangay Mayombo, Dagupan City, as flames engulfed their home and means of livelihood.

A cellphone video captured the swift devastation as fire consumed the family’s junk shop and spread to the family home. The fire also engulfed the truck the family used for their business. 

No person was hurt in the incident but the fire killed the family’s three dogs and 15 fighting cocks. 

"Malungkot kami dahil lahat ng gamit namin walang nailigtas dahil hindi namin akalain na ganito ang mangyayari," Nenita Verdejo, a resident of the house, said.

The fire lasted for over an hour before it was placed under control. 

According to the family, a firecracker that landed in the junk shop started the fire. 

"Parang kwitis, switch ng ganun kaya nasunog ang laman… mga bata daw sabi ng mga nakakita," Pablito Verdejo, the homeowner, said.

Investigation is ongoing to determine the veracity of the information. 

"May mga initial interview na kami sa owner and witness sa fire incident. I-check natin lahat ng possible anggulo kung saan nag-start ang sunog," said FCInsp. Michael John Escano, Fire Marshal of the Dagupan City Fire Station.