Triple Blaze in Cebu City Destroys 31 Homes, Causes P11.3M in Damage
A series of devastating fires struck Cebu City on Saturday, April 4, 2026, resulting in significant destruction and displacing numerous families. The incidents, which occurred in three different barangays, collectively destroyed 31 homes and caused an estimated P11.3 million in damage, according to local fire authorities.
Major Fire in Barangay Ermita Under Investigation
The most severe fire erupted in the residential area of Sityo Proper, Barangay Ermita, at 7:32 p.m. This blaze completely gutted 27 houses, impacting 40 families comprising 160 individuals. The Cebu City Fire Station reported that the fire originated in a house owned by Marina Palermo Milagrosa and occupied by Christine Mae Palermo Milagrosa.
Due to the density of homes constructed from light materials, firefighters escalated the response to a 3rd alarm at 7:55 p.m. The fire was declared under control by 9:47 p.m., meaning it no longer posed a threat to adjacent properties, and was fully extinguished by 10:26 p.m. Preliminary estimates place the damage at approximately P2,340,000.
Authorities have taken a man into custody at Carbon Police Station after residents alleged he was responsible for the fire. Senior Fire Officer 3 Wendell Villanueva, information officer for the Cebu City Fire Station, confirmed that an ongoing investigation is focusing on arson as a potential cause. "Possible sir, and if proven true through our examination, the allegations from the people... that is one of the focused causes of fire," Villanueva stated.
Additional Fires in Lahug and Zapatera
Earlier that evening, at 6:37 p.m., firefighters responded to another fire at Tesoro Compound, First Street, La Guardia, Barangay Lahug. This incident destroyed two houses, starting in a residence owned by Marianne Cindy Tesoro Go-Cedenio and occupied by Robert Lua. The damage was estimated at P270,000, affecting four individuals.
The first fire of the day occurred at 12:18 p.m. in D. Jakosalem Street, Barangay Zapatera, handled by the Pari-an Fire Substation. This blaze completely destroyed two homes and caused an estimated P8.7 million in damage, contributing significantly to the total losses.
As investigations continue, the Cebu City Fire Station emphasizes the importance of fire safety measures in densely populated residential areas, particularly those with structures made from flammable materials.
