FAMILIES affected by the fire in Purok Alalahoy, Barangay Banago, Bacolod City will receive financial assistance from the City Government.

Vice Mayor El Cid Familiaran said Tuesday, December 22, that those whose houses were destroyed will receive P10,000 each, while those with damaged houses will receive P5,000.

He said the financial assistance will be processed by the Department of Social Services and Development (DSSD).

On Monday, December 21, a fire razed 13 houses in Purok Alalahoy, Barangay Banago.

Fire destroyed eight houses and five others were damaged.

Familiaran, who immediately distributed assistance to the fire victims on Monday, said the fire victims were temporarily staying at the Day Care Center in the area.

He said the barangay officials also provided assistance to the affected families.

DSSD is also accepting donations at the Government Center and the social workers assigned in Barangay Banago.

City Fire Marshal Chief Inspector Publio Plotena earlier said the fire started at the house of a certain Moreto around 11:30 a.m.

He said the fire immediately spread to other houses that were made of light materials. Moreto's house was located at the interior of Purok Alalahoy.

He said they are still conducting further investigation to determine the cause of the fire.

Plotena reminded the public not to leave any lighted candle or lamp unattended, and to always check the electrical connection before leaving the house, or immediately unplug an appliance if it smokes or has an unusual smell, and have it repaired.