A man allegedly set his own house on fire in Barangay Panadtaran, San Fernando, Cebu, at around 11 p.m. on June 1, according to local authorities.
Based on the initial police investigation, the suspect was identified only as Alias Cito, 41 years old. Authorities said he was allegedly intoxicated when he intentionally ignited his residence.
The fire affected nearby power lines, creating potential danger for residents and causing a temporary interruption of electricity service in the area.
Video footage from the scene showed that while the house was not completely destroyed, several belongings were damaged by the fire. Among the items reportedly burned were religious images and a crucifix.
In an interview with Brigada News FM Cebu, a neighbor identified as Alias Juana said she discovered the fire after stepping outside her home and seeing the suspect’s house already engulfed in flames.
Juana said she immediately woke other members of her household and switched off their main electrical power supply. She then sought assistance from neighbors in an effort to prevent the fire from spreading further.
According to the neighbor, the suspect quickly fled the area after the fire started but later returned.
She also claimed that the suspect became angry and caused a disturbance while asking who had burned his house.
Despite the incident, Juana described the suspect as generally kind when he was not under the influence of alcohol.
Authorities have since taken the suspect into police custody.
Police said the man may face an arson charge in connection with the incident as the investigation continues.
No injuries were reported in the information released by authorities. Investigators are continuing to gather evidence and determine the full circumstances surrounding the fire that damaged the residence and affected nearby electrical infrastructure in the community.
