COTABATO CITY — A family of four died when a fire of still unknown origin hit a riverside community and razed five houses in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao before dawn Tuesday.
Chief Supt. Graciano Mijares, director of Police Regional Office – Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (PRO-ARMM), identified the victims as Daemus Araneta, 46; and his children, Vina, 8; Dagul, 6; and Mujahid, 4, all from Barangay Katuli, Sultan Kudarat.
Quoting police reports, Mijares said Araneta’s wife is working in the Middle East as a domestic helper.
Initial reports bared that the 2 a.m. fire originated from Araneta’s residence that was made of semi-light materials.
“The investigation on the incident is still going on,” Mijares said.
Sultan Kudarat Mayor Shameen Mastura has extended emergency assistance to the fire victims, while those who perished will be laid to rest before sunset Tuesday in accordance with the Islamic tradition. (Edwin Fernandez/PNA)
