Photo credit: Isko Moreno Domagoso

In a deeply unsettling turn of events, a large fire broke out in Aroma, Tondo—prompting swift action from city officials and response teams. Manila Mayor Isko Moreno, known for his hands-on approach, personally visited the site to assess the situation and check on the affected families.

“Sa isang hindi inaasahang pangyayari, umabot po sa Task Force Charlie ang sunog,” shared Moreno. The fire, which escalated quickly, was declared under control around noon. However, efforts to monitor the area and ensure the safety of residents are still ongoing.

The blaze left many residents without homes or belongings. But thanks to the rapid response of the Manila Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO), various fire volunteer groups, and the Department of National Defense, the fire was eventually subdued.

Moreno extended his heartfelt gratitude to all responders and volunteers, emphasizing the importance of solidarity in times of crisis. “Masakit pong mawalan ng bahay,” he said, “pero tandaan—mas mahalaga ang buhay.”

The mayor also issued a reminder to the public, particularly to senior citizens in the area, to remain vigilant and prioritize safety. He assured residents that help would continue to arrive in different forms, stressing, “Nandito po kami, handang tumulong sa kahit anong paraan.”

As recovery efforts begin, the focus now shifts to ensuring that displaced families receive immediate support and long-term assistance.