Davao City Fire Losses Surge Past P100M Mark in January 2026
Property losses from fires in Davao City have skyrocketed past the P100-million threshold, highlighting a significant rise in both the frequency and severity of incidents compared to the same period last year. The Davao City Fire District (DCFD) disclosed that total losses hit P108 million in January 2026, a dramatic jump from P12 million in January 2025.
Sharp Increase in Fire Incidents and Financial Damage
Fire Senior Inspector Frances Marie Sendrijas reported that the city recorded 78 fire incidents last month, marking a 20 percent increase from 65 cases a year earlier. "While the number of incidents is concerning, the dramatic increase in financial losses is more alarming," Sendrijas stated during the Davao Peace and Security briefing at the Royal Mandaya Hotel on Wednesday, February 11.
She attributed this surge to fires affecting larger commercial and industrial buildings rather than small residential homes. "High-value structures, including warehouses with costly equipment and bulk inventory, drove the losses up significantly," she explained.
Fire Safety Compliance and Public Vigilance
Sendrijas noted that most businesses in Davao City comply with fire safety regulations, with securing a Fire Safety Inspection Certificate (FSIC) remaining mandatory for permit renewal. Establishments failing to meet standards will not receive certification. "So far, business compliance is generally good, though not 100 percent," she said. "Most are following the requirements."
Authorities have urged residents and business owners to conduct regular fire safety inspections and maintain electrical systems, especially as the dry season approaches. February alone has already witnessed four fire incidents, destroying homes and displacing hundreds of families across multiple barangays.
Recent Fire Incidents and Community Impact
On February 8, a fire in Punta Dumalag 3, Barangay Matina Aplaya, razed 27 houses and displaced 43 families. Another blaze struck Purok Malamboon in Barangay 76-A near Ecoland Phase 1 on February 10, spreading rapidly through the dense area and prompting multiple alarms before firefighters contained the flames.
Residents of Purok 22, Malamboon, Ecoland, Barangay 76-A in Davao City began clearing debris and retrieving salvageable belongings on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, following this major fire that destroyed a large residential area.
Fire Prevention Month and Ongoing Risks
Sendrijas warned the public to stay vigilant as fire risks escalate during the dry season. March is officially observed as Fire Prevention Month in the Philippines, following Proclamation No. 115-A signed in 1966 by then-President Ferdinand Marcos Sr., which encourages nationwide fire safety awareness and preventive practices.
The DCFD continues to monitor the situation closely, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to mitigate future losses and protect communities from the devastating effects of fires.
