MAKATI, Philippines — A tragic fire claimed the lives of two senior citizens and left six others injured after flames tore through a residential area along D. Gomez Street, Barangay Tejeros, Makati City, in the early hours of Saturday, January 24. According to the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), the fire broke out at around 1:54 a.m. and quickly escalated to a third alarm, indicating the severity of the blaze and the scale of resources needed to contain it. Firefighters managed to put the fire under control by approximately 6:40 a.m., after hours of intense firefighting.

Authorities confirmed that the fatalities were a married couple aged 69 and 70, highlighting once again how senior citizens are among the most vulnerable during disasters, particularly fires that occur while residents are asleep. Six other individuals sustained injuries and were immediately given medical attention. Initial assessments estimate that around 50 houses were affected, with property damage reaching approximately ₱1.8 million.

Beyond the numbers and timelines, this incident exposes deeper issues about fire safety in densely populated urban communities. Many residential areas, especially older neighborhoods, are characterized by closely packed houses, aging electrical systems, and limited access routes for emergency responders. When fires strike under these conditions, they spread rapidly and leave residents with little time to escape—placing the elderly, children, and persons with disabilities at the greatest risk.

While the swift response of firefighters helped prevent further loss of life, the tragedy raises urgent questions about preparedness, prevention, and accountability. Are fire safety inspections being strictly enforced? Do communities have regular drills, accessible fire exits, and awareness programs tailored for senior citizens? And are local governments investing enough in preventive measures rather than reacting only after disaster strikes? As families mourn and residents begin the difficult process of rebuilding, one question lingers in the ashes: how many more lives must be lost before fire prevention and community safety become a true priority rather than an afterthought? (Larawan mula sa: ShutterStock / Google)