THREE separate fires hit Lapu-Lapu City on Monday, Nov. 17, 2025, destroying more than 30 homes and damaging two commercial structures in three barangays.
The largest fire struck Zone 1 in Barangay Buaya, where about 30 houses burned down. City Fire District Fire Marshal Supt. Arnel Abella said the incident was an isolated case and started at the home of Jerry Godinez, where foam and upholstery materials were stored. He said the exact cause remains under investigation.
Godinez, in an interview, said he heard his brother call for help and rushed to assist his disabled father, but did not see how the fire began. He said the flames spread fast because of the foam materials in his shop and caused his gas stove and butane tanks to explode.
Firefighters struggled to reach the area due to narrow access roads. The fire was reported at 10:50 a.m. and was placed under control at 12:03 p.m. No one was injured.
Another fire broke out earlier along Z. Rizal St. in Barangay Poblacion, damaging a pharmacy stockroom and a bakery. Reported at 6:59 a.m., the fire was traced to the upper storage area, which held items such as diapers. City Fire District Fire Officer 1 Vincent Rhey Reyes said an electrical issue is a possible cause.
The damage reached an estimated P200,000. Witnesses claimed firefighters arrived late, but Reyes said personnel responded within 10 minutes and had enough water.
The fire reached first alarm at 7:09 a.m., was declared under control at 7:38 a.m. and was declared fire out at 7:44 a.m. No injuries were recorded.
The earliest fire occurred at 5:19 a.m. in Sitio Marbeach, Barangay Marigondon, destroying a house. It was believed to have been ignited by an unattended kerosene lamp. Reyes said the house had no electricity and stood away from other structures, preventing the fire from spreading. / DPC