A 70-year-old woman lost her life while her husband sustained injuries in a fire that engulfed six houses in Purok Maanyag 2, Barangay Alijis, Bacolod City, Negros Occidental on the evening of May 6, 2026. The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) reported the incident.
Victims Identified
The fatality was identified as Rosa Magbanua. Her husband, Jose Magbanua, 62, suffered second-degree burns on the back of his neck and is now in stable condition.
Fire Origin and Response
Deputy Fire Marshal Fire Inspector Jemarie Tapiru stated that the fire started at the residence of Flordeliza Lazalita at 10:04 p.m. The flames rapidly spread to neighboring structures made of light and concrete materials. Several BFP and volunteer fire trucks were dispatched, but responders faced difficulties due to narrow passageways. They had to connect hoses to reach the affected area.
Tapiru explained that the couple was asleep when the fire reached their home. Jose awoke to smoke and flames near their room. He attempted to carry his wife out through the fence, but due to her age, Rosa told him to leave her behind and save himself, saying it was her time.
Damage and Displacement
Of the six houses, four were completely destroyed and two were damaged. The fire displaced at least six families, comprising 15 individuals. The blaze was extinguished around 10:21 p.m., leaving approximately P35,000 worth of property damage. Investigation revealed that the fire originated in Lazalita's living room due to a powerbank explosion caused by thermal runaway.
Second Fire Incident
Meanwhile, another fire broke out at 2:09 a.m. on May 7, 2026, in Purok Magnolia, 16th Lacson Street, Barangay 7, leaving at least three families homeless. No injuries or casualties were reported. Tapiru said the fire started at a sari-sari store owned by Maria Theresa Bragasa due to electrical ignition. The flames quickly spread to other light and concrete structures, including two sari-sari stores. Two houses and two sari-sari stores were destroyed, and the fire was extinguished at 2:24 a.m., causing about P4.5 million in property damage.
Safety Reminders and Assistance
The BFP official reminded the public to always check electrical connections and immediately unplug any appliance that smokes or emits an unusual smell, and have it repaired. The City Government has provided food assistance and is facilitating financial aid to the affected families. Mayor Greg Gasataya tasked the Department of Social Services Development to expedite financial assistance to the residents. "The City Government of Bacolod views this loss as a profound tragedy. We extend our sincerest sympathies to the victims, especially to the bereaved family, and assure them that the City stands ready to provide necessary support during this period of grief and recovery," Gasataya said.
