By Gabriela Baron
A fire hit Colegio de Santa Rita (CSR) in San Carlos City, Negros Occidental, Monday night, Aug. 14.
The blaze, which broke out past 6:00 p.m, reportedly started at the accounting office of CSR before spreading to the main building.
It was declared fire out past midnight, Tuesday, Aug. 15.
According to authorities, the fire has damaged classrooms in the second and third floors of the main building.
Authorities said the cause of the fire is not yet determined. Damage is pegged at P18 million.
‘Iconic building’
In a Facebook post, San Carlos City Mayor Rene Gustilo expressed his sadness over the incident.
“Seeing this iconic building ablaze saddens me so much, just like all of us. It has long been the city’s mighty edifice for decades, that resembled as a great institution of quality Christian Education that shaped thousands of lives,” Gustilo said.
“The building may have fallen, but the values and teachings remain, as its true foundation are those who passionately impart their knowledge to every student who seeks to learn, and wants to build a better future,” Gustilo added.
Diocese of San Carlos Bishop Gerardo Alminaza likewise expressed his sadness and asked for prayers.
“Please pray of our AR Sisters Community at Colegio de Santa Rita, San Carlos City,” Alminaza said.
“Thank God all the Sisters are safe and no one is [harmed]. May all of us do something to help them recover from the fire that damaged their residence and school,” he added.
Built in 1933, CSR is managed by Augustinian Recollect Sisters. — cf
