BAGUIO CITY: A devastating fire on New Year’s Day in the province of Benguet left 36 families without homes after destroying 26 houses and a church. The blaze, which occurred along Camp 4, Kennon Road in Tuba, also resulted in one fatality and forced the temporary closure of the road to vehicular traffic.

According to Philippines News Agency, the fire ignited around 5:30 a.m. and engulfed approximately 2,500 square meters of land, causing an estimated PHP37.5 million in property damage. Among the destroyed structures was a worship hall belonging to the Iglesia ni Cristo. Firefighters managed to bring the fire under control by 7 a.m., but not before significant destruction had occurred.

In the aftermath of the fire, responders conducting clearing operations discovered the body of Eric Dili Pacio, a native of Mayag Bauko, Tadian, Mountain Province. Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the blaze.

To facilitate the removal of debris and ensure the safety of the area, the Metro BLISTT Development Authority, led by Baguio Mayor Benjamin Magalong, ordered the temporary closure of Kennon Road. The closure aims to expedite the cleanup process and prevent further hazards.