An octopus electrical connection is being investigated as the possible cause of the fire that erupted at the Bureau of Research and Standards (BRS) building of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) on Wednesday, October 22, according to National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Atty. Jaime Santiago.
In the exclusive interview in Balansyado on Thursday, Santiago said that authorities, led by Captain Bernard Soriano of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), have identified the likely cause of the fire as an unsafe "octopus" electrical connection. They found multiple hazardous and improperly used electrical cords and extension wires at the scene, which are believed to have triggered the blaze.
“Diumano yung sa may octopus connection ay sumabog, pumutok,” the NBI Director said.
When asked about the location of the faulty octopus electrical connection, he replied, “Sa opisina po, doon sa saksakan.” Santiago added that the third floor was the most severely affected area by the incident.
He said that earlier, he sent forensic chemist investigators to examine the debris and burned materials to determine if any flammable substances were involved. He added that the team will continue their investigation tomorrow, when they will return to conduct an electrical examination alongside investigators from the BFP.
Several computers and other items were destroyed by the fire. However, according to Santiago, investigators have yet to conduct a thorough inspection, as the BFP has not yet completed processing the area.
No formal report has been released regarding the number of computers affected by the fire, said Santiago.
“Yung pong electrical investigation, bukas ay to determine naman kung may negligence or purely accident,” he added, noting that they will thoroughly investigate whether any flammable substances were intentionally introduced.
Moreover, Santiago clarified that the DPWH offices for Regions 4A and 4B are no longer in Quezon City, but have already been relocated to the MIMAROPA region, making the BRS building the only remaining office in the area.
