CEBU CITY – On the night of January 18, a fire at an oil depot in Barangay Mabolo, Cebu City, destroyed 20 houses and forced residents and hotel guests to evacuate. The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) reported the fire started around 9 p.m. and was extinguished by 11 p.m. after being raised to the fourth alarm.

Senior Fire Officer 2 Wendell Villanueva, spokesperson for BFP Cebu City, said the blaze originated in a building used for storing petroleum products. Firefighters encountered hazardous conditions, including high ammonia levels and barrels of diesel fuel, requiring specialized equipment to control the flames. Several oil tankers were also consumed in the fire, further complicating the response.

Displacement and Damage Assessment

While no casualties have been reported, the fire left approximately 20 homes in ruins, with displaced families temporarily relocated to safer areas. Damage has been estimated at ₱3.857 million, though the full impact on affected families is still being assessed.

Investigation Underway

The BFP has launched an investigation into the cause of the fire, focusing on safety protocols at the facility.

Preparedness During the Sinulog Festival

With Cebu City gearing up for the Sinulog Festival on January 19, the BFP remains on heightened alert. Fire personnel have been deployed to ensure public safety along the festival route and to prevent similar incidents during the grand parade.

Prioritizing Safety in Hazardous Industries

At Saltegra Consulting, we understand the devastating consequences of incidents like this. Through comprehensive Process Hazard Analysis (PHA) and Process Safety Management (PSM) frameworks, we help organizations identify risks and implement safeguards to protect lives and property. This tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the need for rigorous safety measures, especially in facilities handling hazardous materials.

Partner with Saltegra Consulting to strengthen your safety protocols and prevent future disasters.

References:

https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/regions/2025/1/19/oil-depot-fire-razes-20-houses-in-cebu-city-0822

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