3 hours Ago By N/A (Diann Ivy C. Calucin)
Five individuals were successfully rescued from a commercial and residential building engulfed in flames at the Divisoria Market along Padre Rada Street, Tondo, Manila. The fire, which broke out around 4:20 p.m.
on Feb. 5, was immediately raised to the second alarm at 4:27 p.m.
The incident caused widespread panic as thick black smoke poured from the upper floor of the building. The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) temporarily closed off several roads to shoppers and motorists to allow unobstructed access for incoming fire trucks and emergency vehicles. Authorities also issued a directive for vendors of small retail shops in the area to evacuate.
Firefighters were able to access and rescue the trapped individuals through the fire exits of the building. The BFP has not yet released the identities of the individuals rescued. The fire was finally contained at 5:35 p.
m., but emergency crews are still working to ensure there are no remaining threats. The individuals rescued from the building were quickly given first aid for their injuries, which appeared to be mostly from smoke inhalation and minor wounds.
Arson investigators are still determining the cause of the fire..
