Locals in Manila are dealing with the aftermath of a fire that broke out in the center of the capital city last Sunday, calling for more resources and quicker aid for the affected.
Isla Putting Bato is known for its dense population and precarious shanties and is one of the many informal settlements in Metro Manila.
Just days ago, this was home to over 2,000 families. It was a community full of life.
But on Sunday, it was engulfed by a massive fire, leaving nothing but ash and debris. Many in the community are grappling with the loss of their homes, belongings and livelihoods.
"We are devastated of course because another fire burned down our house again. We have nothing… we need to start over again," said Zenaida Pagaduan, a fire victim.
Residents were sifting through what remains. They were searching for anything they can salvage, and were holding tight to whatever pieces of their lives that have survived the flames.
"We are picking up tin roofs and maybe we can sell them in recycling shops. Someone financed me to start this and maybe I can make a bit of money to rebuild my house," said Romeo Apelado, another fire victim.
Many residents are staying along the roadside, building makeshift tents out of tarpaulins and cardboard, as they keep watch over the few belongings they've managed to save.
It's a heartbreaking scene, and these families say they have little choice. They say evacuation shelters provided by the local government are already at full capacity.
"It's very congested there and a senior citizen like me cannot survive there. It's too warm and I will definitely get out of balance and fall there. I'm taking maintenance medicines," said Rosario Borromeo, an elderly displaced by the fire.
One of the shelters the government has provided near the fire ground is already full and cramped. Families were sleeping on the floors, and some even spilled over into the parking area.
Basic necessities like toilets, bathing, and even dressing up were difficult.
Authorities have asked the dwellers to move to other shelters, but they chose to stay near what's left of their homes.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but fires like this have become all too common in Manila's informal settlements.
Faulty electrical connections are often to blame, with many of these communities relying on makeshift wiring that increases the risk of tragedy.
The victims are calling for more resources, quicker aid, and, most importantly, a chance to rebuild their lives.
While the government promises long-term solutions, for now, these residents are focused on surviving day by day, trying to pick up the pieces of what's been lost.
Victims of massive fire in Philippine capital call for more resources, quicker aid
