In the wake of a devastating fire that ravaged Barangay Zone 5 in Talisay City, Negros Occidental, the local government has initiated a comprehensive donation drive to aid the affected families. The fire, which occurred on January 4, 2025, left 57 families, totaling 213 individuals, without homes, forcing them to seek refuge in the city’s gymnasium.
The blaze destroyed 53 houses and partially damaged four others, prompting immediate action from city officials. Vice Mayor Jose Nicolas Jalandoni III, alongside other city leaders, visited the evacuation center to oversee the provision of essential services. The city has been supplying hot meals, water, and transportation to the gymnasium for the displaced residents.
Healthcare services are also being provided by the City Health Office to ensure the well-being of the evacuees. Lawyer Rowena Lizares, spouse of Mayor Neil Lizares, has been instrumental in rallying support and gathering donations for the victims. She has publicly appealed for assistance, urging the community to help the families rebuild their lives.
The City Planning and Development Office (CPDO) has launched an initiative encouraging individuals and organizations to adopt a family, providing them with shelter materials, clothing, food, and other necessities. This effort aims to offer both material and emotional support to those affected.
Carlos Hilado Memorial State University, located in Talisay City, has also joined the relief efforts with its CHMSUyanihan campaign, which will continue until February 10. The university is accepting various in-kind donations, including clothing, blankets, toiletries, household items, non-perishable food, and drinking water, as well as cash donations through digital platforms like GCash and Maya. Donation drop-off points are available at all four of its campuses.
Director for Internationalization and External Relations Rhoderick Samonte emphasized the importance of community solidarity, calling on compassionate individuals to contribute to the restoration of hope and the rebuilding of lives among the fire victims.