Iriga market fire recovery update

By Paulo DS. Papa

The relocation of 109 commercial stall owner/vendors affected by the fire at Iriga City Public Market is currently in the planning stage, according to Acting Public Information Officer Ailyn Alferez from the local government.

The fire, which occurred around 12:00 am on Friday, Feb. 2, resulted from faulty electrical wiring and affected 109 stalls, prompting a fifth alarm response from nearby fire stations, including Naga City.

The Bureau of Fire Protection declared the fire extinguished by 2:00 am on the same day. Alferez mentioned that BFP - Iriga is still investigating to determine the cost of the incident.

Meanwhile, Mayor Rex Oliva is considering the temporary relocation of the affected owner/vendors.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development has already validated and assessed the affected beneficiaries and the incident site. Alferez stated that these vendors have received relief goods, including food packs and ten kilos of rice. She assured that market law enforcers will secure the area to prevent theft of partially deteriorated products resulting from the fire.