04.02.2026 14:23
A large fire that broke out in the Bongao region of the Philippines quickly spread due to strong winds and wooden structures, burning approximately 1,000 houses and leaving thousands homeless, while there were no casualties and an investigation into the cause of the fire has been initiated.
A large fire that broke out last night in the Bongao region of Tawi-Tawi island in the southern Philippines turned a residential area into ruins. The flames completely destroyed approximately 1,000 homes and left thousands of people homeless, as confirmed by initial images and information published in the foreign press.
SPREADING DUE TO WIND EFFECT
The fire, which started in the evening local time, spread rapidly due to strong winds. The high density of houses built with light materials or boats in the area made it difficult to control the fire. Many structures were reduced to ashes due to the destructive impact of the flames lasting over four hours, and the neighborhood was almost evacuated.
THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE EVACUATED
In Bongao, where the fire broke out, officials stated that approximately 5,000 people were evacuated after the incident, and people were taken to safe areas by land and sea. Initial reports indicated no loss of life, but the scale of destruction and property loss caused by the fire deeply shook the community.
CITIZENS TRIED TO SAVE THEIR BELONGINGS
While emergency response teams, government officials, and local NGOs were immediately dispatched to the area, efforts were initiated to provide shelter, food, and basic needs support to the victims. Residents desperately tried to salvage the few belongings they could find among the remaining debris.
CAUSE OF THE OUTBREAK UNKNOWN
The cause of the fire has not yet been determined. Authorities reported that a comprehensive investigation into the incident is ongoing and that they are working to clarify how the fire started. In the coming days, national and international calls for support are being made for both emergency aid and the reconstruction process in the region.