Arson Charges Land Ex-con Back in Jail for Intramuros Fire

Photo courtesy of Balita

A suspect with a history of drug use has been charged with arson following a fire that engulfed a residential area in Intramuros on February 25, 2026. The Bureau of Fire Protection's investigation suggested the fire was intentionally set, according to Barangay 655 Chairman Jhonny "Nonoy" Yacub. The blaze rendered hundreds of families homeless, attributed to a domestic dispute.

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The suspect, known as "Burnok," allegedly set his own house on fire after his wife left him for another man. Witnesses claimed that in his rage, he used gasoline to ignite the fire, causing it to rapidly spread through the community. After his arrest, the suspect was inquested on February 27, but concerns arose about the process, which appeared casual according to officials.

Chairman Yacub noted that the suspect had prior run-ins with the law and was involved in illegal drugs. Meanwhile, the suspect’s former wife and children remain near the fire site, temporarily staying in makeshift tents, which has prompted officials to consider relocating them to prevent further conflict. Meanwhile, affected residents are housed in evacuation centers like Dalpan Sports Complex, with aid coming from government and private entities to assist recovery efforts.

Despite these efforts, tension remains, and officials are cautious about the community's stability. The legal proceedings against the suspect continue, as authorities and organizations work to support those affected by the fire, reported Balita.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · Balita · 02 Mar 2026