Senator Win Gatchalian called on the public to exercise caution and vigilance in preventing fire incidents as the use of Christmas lights and other festive decorations becomes widespread during Christmas and New Year celebrations.

“While the holiday season brings joy and togetherness, we must also prioritize safety in our homes and communities,” Gatchalian said. “Faulty wirings, overloaded outlets, and unattended decorations can turn festive cheer into tragedy in an instant. Let’s ensure that our celebrations remain safe for everyone,” he added. 

The senator emphasized this message during his visit to Tondo, Manila, where he provided food assistance to 2,114 families affected by the fire incident last November 24 in Isla Putting Bato, Barangay 20. The senator distributed 500 sacks of 50-kilogram rice, valued at P950,000. The residential fire, which engulfed about a thousand houses, lasted for about six hours as residences in the area were congested and made of light materials.

As firefighters had difficulty extinguishing the fire due to overpopulated community and narrow roads, at least 32 fire trucks from the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), three helicopters from the Philippine Air Force (PAF), and water boats from the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) were tapped to help control the fire.

“Kailangan nating siguraduhin na maayos ang mga sinasabit nating Christmas lights ngayong panahon ng kapaskuhan para hindi ito maging dahilan ng sunog at sakuna,” Gatchalian said, noting that electrical malfunctions caused by the use of Christmas light are often the cause of fire incidents during the Christmas and New Year celebrations.

Gatchalian urged families to regularly check their decorations, avoid overloading electrical circuits, and have basic fire safety measures in place. “A little precaution can go a long way in protecting our loved one and making this season truly merry and bright,” he ended.