Fire in Manila Commercial Area Forces Vendors to Resume Selling After Properties Burned

A fire broke out in a commercial building in Paco, Manila on Monday evening, causing an estimated 15 million pesos in damage. The blaze started around 8 PM and quickly spread, affecting several properties in the area.

Firefighters battled the flames for hours before bringing the situation under control. Despite their efforts, the fire gutted multiple shops and businesses housed in the building complex. Eyewitnesses reported seeing thick smoke billowing from the site as the inferno raged.

In the aftermath of the destructive blaze, vendors who operated in the affected area were forced to resume selling their goods on the streets. Many had their shops and inventory completely destroyed by the fire, leaving them with few options to maintain their livelihoods.

Why this matters: The fire has dealt a devastating blow to the local business community in Paco, Manila. The loss of property and merchandise will have long-lasting economic impacts on the vendors and their families who rely on their small businesses to survive.

The Manila local government unit has temporarily suspended face-to-face classes in the city's schools due to the hot weather conditions, which may have contributed to the rapid spread of the fire. Officials have not yet determined the cause of the blaze, and a full investigation is underway.

According to initial assessments, the damage from the fire is estimated at around 15 million pesos. Vendors affected by the destruction are struggling to recover any salvageable goods from the rubble as they attempt to restart their businesses on the streets near the burned building. "We lost everything in the fire, but we have to keep selling what we can to support our families," said one vendor who previously operated a small shop in the now-gutted commercial center.

Key Takeaways

• Fire in Paco, Manila commercial building caused 15M pesos in damage.
• Firefighters battled blaze for hours before bringing it under control.
• Affected vendors forced to resume selling on streets, losing shops/inventory.
• Fire dealt devastating blow to local businesses, long-lasting economic impacts.
• Cause of fire under investigation, damage estimated at around 15M pesos.