Fire Ravages Maharlika Complex Basement in Baguio for 8 Hours

Photo courtesy of Manila Bulletin

A fierce fire erupted on the evening of 6th September, engulfing the basement of the Maharlika Livelihood Complex in Baguio City. Spanning an area of 1,500 square metres, the blaze blazed for eight arduous hours before being extinguished just past 5 a.m. the following morning. It's a dramatic incident that has left the local community shaken and sparked conversations about safety and response measures in urban settings.

The fire began at approximately 9 p.m., catching many off guard in the bustling vicinity of the complex. The challenge for firefighters was colossal. Thick, black smoke billowing from the main entrance hampered initial efforts, suggesting the fire's intensity within the building. Responders, under the watchful eye of Mayor Benjamin Magalong, managed to secure the premises, ensuring the neighbouring city market remained unaffected.

Mayor Magalong praised the resilience and coordination of the firefighting teams. "Our firefighters encountered dense smoke, obstructing their initial attempts to tackle the blaze. Despite these challenges, they strategically managed the fire exits to protect nearby areas," he remarked, acknowledging the combined efforts of fire stations from BLISTT, allied personnel, and private entities who offered assistance.

The Maharlika Livelihood Complex, a notable city landmark, holds historical significance. Operated by the Human Settlements Development Corp. under the Department of Agriculture, it was Baguio City’s inaugural mall. Its basement, once a lively food court, had been transformed into a hub of stalls selling clothes and gadgets, including an electronic bingo section.

Interestingly, this incident echoes a past challenge for the complex. Nearly a year prior, on 16th July 2025, the upper-level parking area caught fire in the early hours, highlighting ongoing concerns about fire safety protocols in the building.

Recently, the complex's management witnessed a significant transition. Following the expiry of a lengthy 50-year lease, the operation of the Maharlika Livelihood Complex transferred to Baguio City's local government. The handover process, ceremonial in nature, aimed for a seamless transition, officially taking effect at the end of May.

During this post-transition phase, the city administration faces the task of addressing infrastructure vulnerabilities. Calls for comprehensive safety evaluations and enhanced firefighting resources are gaining momentum, especially with the community's growing apprehension about potential future incidents.

In response to the latest fire, advanced smoke extraction machines were deployed, showcasing modern firefighting techniques. These machines played a pivotal role in diluting the thick smoke, enabling firefighters to approach the source of the blaze more effectively.

The event has reopened discussions among local authorities about strict enforcement of safety regulations. It emphasises the need for regular drills, updated equipment, and robust emergency response plans to manage any potential future threats. With the Maharlika complex now under city management, there’s an urgent responsibility to ensure its safety and the welfare of its occupants and visitors.

The community, while grateful for the prompt response, remains on edge. The frequency of such incidents calls for swift action and policy implementations to transform concern into proactive security measures. Mayor Magalong noted the availability of ample equipment and assistance from neighbouring towns, reflecting on the collaboration essential to combating such emergencies effectively.

As investigations into the cause of the fire continue, there's a shared acknowledgment of the vital role played by community solidarity and coordinated emergency services. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by urban centres, urging an encompassing approach towards safety and resilience.

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Manila Bulletin 2025-09-08