by: Angelica Arquero
A fire that broke out at the Pasuquin Public Market in Ilocos Norte reached third alarm level and destroyed several stalls, with damage estimated at 24 million pesos, authorities said.
The blaze started on the second floor of the market, prompting vendors to hurriedly salvage their goods as flames spread through the area.
Firefighters battled the fire for nearly two hours before declaring it under control at around noon.
According to the Pasuquin Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, arson has been ruled out as a possible cause.
Authorities said the fire may have been accidental, possibly due to electrical wiring, although the investigation is still ongoing.
MDRRMO head Enrico Natoza Jr. said the fire may have started near the post office area, where market equipment is usually stored, but emphasized that the findings are not yet final.
Despite the intensity of the fire, no injuries or fatalities were reported. Firefighters from nearby towns also responded to contain the blaze as it escalated to a third alarm.
Natoza urged the public, especially market vendors, to remain cautious and practice fire safety, particularly in handling electrical connections.
Initial estimates from the Bureau of Fire Protection placed the value of the destroyed properties at about 24 million pesos.
Authorities continue to investigate the exact cause of the fire.
