Massive Fire in Manila Slum Displaces Thousands

A blaze destroyed over 1,000 homes in Isla Puting Bato, leaving 2,000 families homeless and highlighting the vulnerabilities of densely packed informal settlements.

The fire broke out on Sunday morning in the Tondo district's Isla Puting Bato, burning for eight hours before being extinguished.
Approximately 1,000 homes were destroyed, displacing around 2,000 families, but no casualties have been reported so far.
The affected area, a densely packed slum with homes made of light, flammable materials, is particularly prone to fires.
Authorities deployed helicopters, fire trucks, and boats to combat the flames, while residents fled by boat or improvised rafts with their belongings.
Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna has pledged aid, including food, cash, and rebuilding materials, and is considering relocating affected residents to safer areas.

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