Alimodian: A fire broke out early Monday morning in a school building in Alimodian town in Iloilo, leaving an estimated damage of PHP14 million, police said. Capt. Marrion Asparo, officer-in-charge of Alimodian Municipal Police Station, reported that the security guard of the Alimodian National Comprehensive High School discovered the fire at the stockroom at around 3:45 a.m.

According to Philippines News Agency, the old building, which was scheduled for renovation, was partly used for classes and partly served as a stockroom for equipment and costumes of the rondalla. The fire resulted in 14 rooms, including a canteen and a clinic, being completely burned, while the gymnasium sustained partial damage.

Alimodian Mayor Ian Kenneth Alfeche noted that the building was about to be condemned, but the process was delayed due to an election ban. A PHP25-million fund has been allocated for the construction of new classrooms. In response to the incident, temporary makeshift classrooms will be built to ensure that the opening of classes on June 16 is not disrupted.

School principal III Rumar Cubin stated that the fire originated in the laboratory room of their Technology Livelihood Building and rapidly spread to adjacent rooms due to the building's age. During the interim period, a multipurpose building or temporary classrooms will be used to accommodate students. Cubin urged those willing to assist, as the supply office containing essential materials for the school opening was among the affected areas.

The Bureau of Fire Protection is conducting a thorough investigation to determine the exact cause of the fire. Meanwhile, the school administration and the local government are assessing the full extent of the damage and coordinating efforts to determine the subsequent steps.