DAVAO CITY, Philippines – The inter-agency group tasked to investigate the tragic NCCC mall fire is expected to come up with a recommendation on fire safety measures.
Fire Superintendent Jerry Candido, spokesperson of the Interagency Anti-Arson Task Force, said they have initially discussed on reassessing standards on fire safety during their meeting last December 30.
“We are looking at the most effective way to avoid the same incident from happening because we know what caused the fire, what started the short circuit,” Candido told reporters over the phone Tuesday, January 2.
Candido said the short circuit was due to how the electrical wirings were installed in the building.
“You can see that during the conduct of inspections,” Candido said, referring to the recommendation to relieve local fire officers responsible for the NCCC Mall’s acquisition of fire safety inspection certificate (FSIC) despite violations.
The FSIC is part of the requirements for processing business permits.
Initial investigation showed the fire started at the ceiling of the third floor where the textile section is located. The fire rapidly spread towards the fourth level occupied by the business process outsourcing company Survey Sampling International (SSI) Davao.
The task force is scheduled to resume their probe here on Thursday, January 4.
The agency is targeting to gather all documents and evidence in a week’s time to determine the specific liability of those involved in the fire.
Candido, however, stressed that the building’s violation was “very clear.” (davaotoday.com)