JANUARY 4, 2026 — A massive fire tore through a residential block in Barangay Potrero, Malabon City before dawn on January 4, leaving more than 100 families homeless at the start of the new year. The blaze, which reached second alarm, gutted over 20 houses along Juliana Street and forced residents to flee with little more than the clothes on their backs.

Barangay kagawad Walter Guevarra, among the first responders, said the fire was traced to a crowded rental compound. 

“Kanina ang tawag kasi, nandun (ang sunog) sa area na may 73 families na paupahan. Doon daw nagsimula ang ano ng sunog,” he said. 

(Earlier, the call was that the fire started in the area with 73 families renting there.)

Fire investigators noted the narrow alleys and light construction materials worsened the situation. 

Lead Arson Investigator Armando Anciong explained, “Bali yung ikalawang alarma, nagsigurado tayo kasi nga mapapansin ninyo light materials yung involved natin. Bukod doon, ang daan medyo maliit pagdating sa loob, eskinita na lang yung pinasukan. Syempre po para hindi tayo mashort sa supply ng tubig.” 

(We raised the alarm because the houses were made of light materials and the path was narrow, only alleys, so we had to ensure water supply wouldn’t run short.)

No casualties were reported, but the damage was extensive. Evacuees are now housed at Potrero Elementary School, disrupting classes. SK Chairperson Allaiza Mae Alamo said teachers are resorting to online sessions while classrooms serve as temporary shelters.

Residents appealed for assistance, stressing that they were unable to save any belongings and entered the new year with nothing but the clothes they were wearing. 

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This was already the second fire in Potrero and the third in Malabon in just two weeks — a reminder that fire safety isn’t something we can take lightly. People are now talking again about how important it is to be extra careful at home, especially with electrical wiring and appliances.

The truth is simple: when a fire breaks out, the best protection any family can have is being prepared. And preparedness doesn’t have to be complicated — it starts with small, everyday habits.

Here are some practical fire safety tips at home:

• Check your outlets and wires regularly: Replace damaged cords and avoid using old, faulty extension wires.
• Don’t overload sockets: Plugging too many appliances into one outlet can easily cause overheating.
• Keep flammable items away from plugs and stoves: Clothes, curtains, and paper should never be near heat sources.
• Have a fire extinguisher ready: Even a small one can make a big difference in stopping flames early.
• Plan an escape route: Make sure every family member knows how to get out quickly and where to meet outside.
• Practice fire drills at home: A few minutes of practice can save lives when seconds matter.
• Teach kids what to do: Show them how to call for help and remind them never to hide during a fire.

Fires can happen anytime, anywhere. The question is — Are we ready when it does?

(Image: YouTube)