THE Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) has ordered the closure of San Marino Residences in Barangay Mabolo, Cebu City, for failing to comply with fire safety requirements.
On Thursday, March 13, 2025, the BFP issued the closure order after multiple violations were found, including the absence of smoke control systems and atrium fire protection, as well as a defective fire detection, alarm and communication system.
SFO3 Lemuel Vincent Alcoseba II, commander of the BFP Mabolo Substation, confirmed on Monday, March 17, that the Cebu City Fire Office issued the order due to unresolved violations.
He said fire safety notices were issued as early as Oct. 24, 2024, following an inspection that revealed deficiencies.
A notice to comply was sent to San Marino Residences Condo Corp., but a follow-up inspection on Nov. 7 confirmed non-compliance, leading to a notice to correct violations. On Nov. 20, authorities posted a fire hazard warning. Despite further inspections, the BFP issued an abatement order on Nov. 29, culminating in the closure order.
Alcoseba said some violations under Republic Act 9514, the Revised Fire Code of the Philippines of 2008, have been addressed, but the closure will remain until all issues, particularly serious deficiencies, are corrected.
“We asked them to submit a contract committing to repairs or installations, but they have not complied,” Alcoseba said in Cebuano.
The BFP noted the building owners failed to provide essential fire safety documents, including a fire safety evaluation clearance required for an occupancy permit.
Attempts to reach the Office of the Building Official for further details were unsuccessful.
Alcoseba clarified that the order does not forcefully evict occupants but informs them of the risks, including the lack of a smoke control system and inadequate fire exits, which could lead to suffocation or restricted escape routes.
Chris Trombly, a resident for nearly a year, was surprised by the sudden closure, questioning how the building continued operating despite safety issues.
Another unit owner, who requested anonymity, said residents suffer from mismanagement despite efforts to address fire safety concerns.
Unit owners sent a letter on Saturday, March 15, to the San Marino Residences Condo Corp. board, requesting action, but have not received a response.
SunStar Cebu also tried to contact Landtraders World Properties Corp., the building owner, but received no response as of press time. (DPC)