PHILIPPINES: The local government of Bongao has mobilized relief and coordination efforts to assist around 1,000 families displaced by a massive fire that hit a coastal barangay late Tuesday night, February 3, 2026, the PNA reported.
According to authorities, the four-hour blaze broke out at around 10:00 p.m. in Lamion, a seaside community composed largely of stilt houses made of light materials. Strong winds helped the fire spread quickly, damaging an estimated 1,000 homes and displacing more than 5,000 individuals.
The Bongao Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office said affected families were evacuated by both land and sea as the fire intensified. Despite the scale of the incident, no deaths were reported.
Relief and Evacuation Efforts
On Wednesday, the Bongao local government coordinated with the Bangsamoro Ministry of Social Services and Development and the Provincial Government of Tawi-Tawi to carry out initial relief operations.
Displaced residents are currently housed in two evacuation centers
• Mindanao State University Amilbahar Gym
• MSU Integrated Laboratory School
The Bongao Rural Health Unit has deployed medical personnel to attend to the health needs of evacuees, including children, elderly residents, and individuals requiring ongoing care.
Firefighting Challenges
Local responders said the firefighting operation faced serious obstacles. Several footbridges were damaged during the fire, slowing down rescue efforts and limiting access for fire trucks and emergency personnel.
The Bongao Central Fire Station declared the fire under control at around 2:00 a.m. Wednesday, roughly four hours after it began.
Investigation Ongoing
Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine the cause of the fire and to assess the full extent of property damage. Initial reports point to the rapid spread being linked to closely packed homes and strong coastal winds.
Local officials said relief assistance and damage assessment will continue in the coming days as affected families begin the process of recovery.
Families displaced by the Bongao fire remain in evacuation centers as relief operations continue. Officials urge residents to monitor local announcements for updates on assistance, rebuilding support, and safety advisories.