Late-night blaze in Tawi-Tawi displaces thousands; probe underway

Massive fire razes 1,000 homes in Philippines

A massive fire tore through Barangay Lamion in Bongao, Tawi-Tawi, late Tuesday night, destroying an estimated 1,000 homes and forcing thousands to flee in the remote island province of the Philippines.
The blaze erupted around 10:09 pm on February 3, 2026, and spread swiftly across the coastal settlement. Strong winds and the lightweight, highly flammable materials used in many stilt houses intensified the fire, allowing flames to engulf large sections of the densely populated community within hours.
Visuals shared online showed rooftops consumed by flames, thick smoke rising into the night sky, and structures collapsing as the fire advanced. Firefighters managed to bring the situation under control by about 2 am on Wednesday, but not before an area housing roughly 5,000 people was devastated.
Despite the scale of destruction, no fatalities have been reported in initial assessments. Hundreds of families have been moved to temporary shelters as authorities organise relief operations.
Bangsamoro Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua directed immediate assistance, including food, water, tents, medical aid, and security support. Emergency units, alongside social welfare agencies and local officials led by Tawi-Tawi Governor Yshmael Sali, are coordinating rescue and rehabilitation efforts.
The cause of the blaze remains under investigation, though early indications suggest it may have originated in a residential structure. Survivors described frantic attempts to escape as flames jumped rapidly from one house to another.
Drone images taken at daybreak revealed widespread destruction, charred remains of stilt foundations jutting from the shoreline and debris scattered across what was once a thriving neighbourhood.
Authorities have estimated losses at more than Php17.5 million, while community leaders are urging donations and long-term rebuilding support to help affected families recover.

5 ફેબ્રુઆરી, 2026 | 11:35 IST

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