Sun Dec 01 23:24:05 UTC 2024: ## Thousands Homeless After Massive Fire Devastates Manila Shanty Town
**Manila, Philippines** – A devastating fire ripped through Isla Puting Bato, a shanty town in Manila’s Tondo district, on Sunday, leaving at least 2,000 families homeless and destroying approximately 1,000 homes. The blaze, which raged for eight hours, started around 8 a.m. and was only brought under control by 4 p.m.
Drone footage showed the intense fire consuming densely packed stilt houses, forcing residents to flee, many escaping by makeshift raft into the sea. While there have been no reported casualties, approximately 8,000 people have been displaced. The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but faulty wiring or gas canisters are suspected, common causes in Manila’s overcrowded slums.
Elvira Valdemoro, a 58-year-old shop owner, described the devastating loss, stating, “Everything is gone. We don’t know how we can eat. We are in a very bad situation, and it’s almost Christmas.”
Manila Mayor Maria Sheilah “Honey” Lacuna-Pangan visited the affected area on Monday, offering comfort and assuring residents of ongoing aid. She urged residents to register for temporary shelter, where meals and supplies are being provided. The Mayor pledged continued support, emphasizing the need for community resilience as Christmas approaches. The city is working to provide assistance to those affected and help them rebuild their lives.
First Piper 