Crew of Navy vessel first responders to fire in Bongao

PAGADIAN CITY (Sept. 3, 2018) – The Philippine Navy vessel under the operational control of Naval Forces Western Mindanao responded to a fire erupted at Port area, Kahapan St., Bongao, Tawi-Tawi, Sunday 2:30amm, Naval Forces Western Mindanao official said.

Rear Admiral Rene V. Medina, Commander NFWN disclosed that BRP Miguel Malvar (PS 19) led by Cmdr. Charles Merric A Villanueva PN(GSC), as the first responders to the said incident, sent two firefighting teams with pumps and fire hoses to combat the fire that gutted several buildings and houses in the nearby vicinity of Bongao Pier. PS 19 was moored along the said Pier when the incident transpired.

Medina said that the crew of said vessel also rescued and evacuated almost 50 families in the area and no casualties were reported. The fire was declared under control at around 5:30am.

The immediate and prompt action of the two firefighting teams of PS 19 prevented the spread of fire in the port area which could have razed nearby houses and establishments, NFWM Commander added.

He also said that the immediate response by the Philippine Navy was acknowledged by the Municipal Disaster Risk and Reduction Management Council. Rest assured that the Philippine Navy will continuously provide services and assistance to its citizens in times of disaster.(By JONG CADIOB)