Fire wipes out 7 houses in Calayan Island

Calayan, Cagayan – While no one was hurt in a fire that started in the kitchen of a fisherman in Balatubat, Calayan Island, seven houses in the area turned to ashes, according to authorities.

The houses were owned by Ruben and Pamela Simon, Max Roxas, Mimiax Peralta, Eddie Mar Simon, Ronie Bayuga, and Jose Onate Sr.

The fire started when a fisherman forgot to put out the fire after boiling water for coffee on Monday, February 19.

Before heading out for fishing on that day, fishermen in the area had coffee in their houses. They then went fishing, unaware of what was about to happen.

The fire spread quickly since houses in the area were made of light materials.

Residents in the area were unable to save their belongings.

At present, they were evacuated to their barangay hall and were promptly assisted by barangay officials through food packs.

They were also provided with non-food items, such as tents, for temporary shelter.