

Families displaced by a fire that swept through Parola Compound in Tondo, Manila are set to receive ₱15,000 each in financial assistance from the city government on Monday, May 25.
According to Manila Department of Social Welfare Director Jay Dela Fuente, the cash aid will be distributed later in the day by Manila Mayor Isko Moreno.
Long queues formed early at the Leonardo Fugoso Sports Complex as residents from Barangay 275, Gate 46 of Parola Compound awaited relief goods and confirmation of the cash assistance, as reported by RH Tina Nolasco.
Hundreds of families are currently staying at the sports complex, while others have chosen to remain near their burned homes to guard their remaining belongings despite difficult conditions.
Some residents said they are also hoping for a visit from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to extend additional assistance to those affected.
The fire broke out on Saturday and quickly spread through the densely populated community, leaving many families with nothing left to save.
Some residents suspect the blaze may have been triggered by an overheated charger or faulty electrical wiring, although authorities have yet to determine the official cause as investigations continue.
Meanwhile, several evacuees have opted not to stay in evacuation centers due to overcrowding and the need to secure what little property remains.
Johnny Bernales, whose home was destroyed, appealed for immediate government assistance, citing the difficulty of starting over with the school year approaching.
“Sana po si Pangulong Marcos ay magbigay ng tulong sa mga kababayan nating nasalanta ng sunog dahil wala na po talaga kaming natira, lalo na malapit na ang pasukan,” he said, adding that the fire reportedly spread rapidly from a nearby house, leaving residents with no time to save their belongings.
