Gigantic fire rages in major city: 8000 people homeless
Manila (Philippines) - The purest inferno. A gigantic fire has broken out in a slum in the greater Manila area, the capital of the Philippines. Thousands are now without a roof over their heads, many have lost everything. The people are desperate.
The fire broke out in the morning and within minutes the entire slum was ablaze.
It was a pure inferno that took its course on Sunday in the densely populated district of Tondo - the country's largest slum, home to 650,000 people. As the Philstar portal reports, the fire broke out in a bakery, spread to neighboring corrugated iron huts and raged throughout the day and late into the night.
At least 1000 dwellings fell victim to the flames and 8000 people are now homeless, reports CNN.
The fire department was on the scene with a large contingent. The Southeast Asian country's air force and coast guard also took part in the firefighting efforts. The fire was brought under control at around 2 am.
It was initially unclearwhether there were any fatalities or injuries in the accident.
Fire in Manila: More than 1000 homes lie in ruins
Photos show dramatic scenes. Desperate people try to bring their belongings to safety on improvised rafts. Other residents have horror written all over their faces.
"I feel bad because we no longer have a livelihood or a home. Everything is gone. We don't know what to eat. We are in a very bad situation and it's almost Christmas," said one resident.
The people who are now homeless have been housed in emergency shelters. The authorities distributed emergency rations. Maria Sheilah "Honey" Lacuna-Pangan (59), the mayor of the mega-metropolis, spoke to those affected and promised help.
"We will help you all. Don't lose hope. Let's help each other before the Christmas season, we really hope you can return to your homes," said the mayor.