BUTUAN CITY, Philippines - Following the tragic fire that left at least 17 people dead and 3 wounded, Vice Mayor and currently Acting Mayor Lawrence "Law" Fortun has declared May 10 as a day of mourning for the City of Butuan.
In a proclamation issued by Fortun, it also called on all government institutions within the jurisdiction of the city to lower their flags at half-mast to signify their sympathy to the bereaved families of the victims. In an interview with the media, Fortun also vowed to push for a deeper investigation on the incident as there have been allegations that the doors of the estbalishment were locked both inside and outside that may have caused the victims to be trapped inside. The investigation would also look into the culpabilities of the building owner if they have violated the building code especially in providing proper fire exits.
Later in the afternoon following the incident, Fortun led government employees and local residents in an ecumenical service at the fire site. Residents lit candles outside the torched establishment and offered prayers for the souls of the victims.
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