Jealousy Seen as Motive in Intramuros Blaze That Left 500+ Families Homeless

Authorities are investigating a suspected case of arson after a massive fire tore through a residential area in Intramuros, Manila on Wednesday, leaving hundreds of families displaced.

Police arrested a 36-year-old man identified as Jervy Roldan, alias “Burnok,” who allegedly set his own home on fire along Cabildo Street in Barangay 655.

According to the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), the fire broke out at around 5:28 p.m. and quickly escalated to fourth alarm before it was put out at approximately 11:30 p.m.

Several shanties were destroyed in the blaze, affecting at least 532 families, based on initial figures from the Manila Department of Social Welfare.

Arson investigators estimated the damage to property at around P10 million.

Police said residents mauled the suspect following the incident, prompting authorities to rush him to the Jose R. Reyes Memorial Medical Center for treatment of injuries.

While the suspect’s exact motive has yet to be officially confirmed, barangay officials claimed that Roldan may have intentionally set his house on fire due to jealousy.

The BFP-San Lazaro unit has taken over the investigation to determine the cause of the fire.

In the aftermath, the nearby Bahay Tsinoy Museum was temporarily closed to allow for inspection and cleanup.

Displaced residents are currently being housed at the Delpan evacuation complex, while the San Agustin Church has initiated relief efforts to distribute food and other essential items.

Manila Mayor Isko Moreno also extended financial assistance amounting to P7.98 million to affected families.