An elderly couple died after a fire blazed in a residential area in Barangay Tejeros, Makati City, on early Saturday morning, January 24.

The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) said the fire broke out at around 1:54 a.m. along D. Gomez Street and rapidly spread due to closely built houses.

The incident was raised to the third alarm before firefighters managed to put the blaze under control at 4:26 a.m. The fire was declared out at around 6:40 a.m.

The fatalities were identified as a 69-year-old woman and her 70-year-old husband, both senior citizens. Their bodies were later retrieved from their burned residence in the morning.

Meanwhile, six individuals were reportedly injured, including an 81-year-old man with a history of dementia. He was given first aid by the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (DRRMO).

As of 7:00 a.m., the Makati Social Welfare and Development (MSWD) reported that the fire affected 126 families, or 366 individuals.

A total of 18 firefighters were deployed during the operation.

Makati City Mayor Nancy Binay confirmed the deaths and said authorities are still investigating the cause of the fire.

Barangay Tejeros officials are appealing for donations and assistance for residents severely affected by the incident.

Those who wish to help may coordinate with the Barangay Tejeros Council at the Barangay Tejeros Hall.