The Bureau of Fire Protection in Davao City (BFP-Davao City) responded to the first fire incidents of 2026, which involved a residential property and a major shopping mall on the same day, January 2.
Residential Fire on Leon Maria Guerrero Street
A house fire broke out in the early hours of the new year at a residence on Leon Maria Guerrero Street in Barangay 30, Davao City. The Davao City Police Office reported the blaze started at approximately 3:14 a.m.
The property, owned by a 66-year-old man known as "Leo," sustained significant damage. Fortunately, all occupants evacuated safely, and no injuries were reported.
Firefighters, including units from the BFP and the volunteer Filipino Chinese Fire Fighters of Davao, managed to bring the fire under control by 5:03 a.m.
Senior Fire Officer 1 Michael Gamot, a fire investigator with BFP–PRO-Davao, stated that an on-site examination pointed to old and defective electrical wiring as the probable cause. The total cost of the damage is still being assessed.
Major Mall Fire at Gaisano Citygrand
In a separate and more severe incident later that day, a fire erupted at the Gaisano Citygrand mall in Buhangin. Central 911 raised the alarm to Level 3 at 4:25 p.m.
By 4:23 p.m., the fire had already spread to the left wing of the second floor, and the third floor was reported to be burning. Fire suppression efforts continued into the evening, even amid rain, and a fire-out declaration was pending as of press time.
The Davao City Police Office directed personnel to secure all exits and entrances at 4:26 p.m., calling for augmentation to prevent possible looting, particularly at the Mang Inasal restaurant within the mall. The cause of the mall fire remains under investigation.
Authorities Issue Fire Safety Reminders
The BFP noted that fire incidents typically increase during the holiday season and early January, often due to faulty electrical connections, overloaded outlets, and aging wiring.
Authorities emphasized that many residential fires are preventable. They urged the public to take proactive measures:
- Have electrical wiring inspected regularly by licensed electricians.
- Avoid overloading power outlets and replace damaged components immediately.
- Keep fire extinguishers at home and practice fire safety drills.
- Report any signs of electrical malfunction promptly.
These back-to-back incidents in Davao City underscore the critical need for heightened vigilance and proper maintenance of electrical systems to prevent property damage and ensure public safety.
