Tragic House Fire in Malolos, Bulacan Claims Four Lives
Malolos City, Bulacan – May 21, 2025
A devastating fire swept through the Caluag home in Barangay Bulihan just before dawn on May 21. At approximately 4:00 AM, flames erupted in the ground floor and rapidly spread, engulfing the house for around 30 minutes before the Malolos Fire Station brought it under control tiktok.com+14gmanetwork.com+14gmanetwork.com+14.
🕯️ Victims & Incident Timeline
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Fatalities:
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Philip “Phillip” Caluag, 47
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Maricel Santos Caluag, 49 (public school teacher)
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Felice Gabrielle Caluag, 18 (incoming college freshman)
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Julien Lucius Caluag, 9
All succumbed to suffocation on the second floor during the blaze facebook.com+3facebook.com+3facebook.com+3newscorebulacan.net.
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Survivor:
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Zethyehoshua Caluag, 15, rescued alive from a bathroom on the second floor. He sustained injuries and is currently hospitalized newscorebulacan.net.
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Fire Control: The blaze was reported around 3:48 AM and declared extinguished by 4:18 AM instagram.com+2newscorebulacan.net+2mb.com.ph+2.
🔥 Investigated Cause
Initial findings point to an overnight-charging mobile phone as the likely source of ignition. Neighbors have shared that the device may have overheated and sparked the fire facebook.com+6facebook.com+6facebook.com+6. The Bureau of Fire Protection continues to investigate to confirm this theory.
💔 Community & Family Impact
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Maricel, an elementary teacher, had recently prepared school supplies for her children, who were eagerly anticipating the new school year gmanetwork.comnewscorebulacan.net.
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The family lies in state at Malolos Memorial Homes, with relatives appealing for privacy and community support en.wikipedia.org+10newscorebulacan.net+10instagram.com+10.
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Zethyehoshua, being a surviving minor and former OFW child, may be eligible for government assistance newscorebulacan.net.
🛑 Fire Safety Takeaways
This heartbreaking incident highlights urgent safety reminders:
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Never leave devices charging unattended or overnight—especially near beds or flammable items.
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Use certified chargers and inspect cords regularly for wear or damage.
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Install smoke detectors on each floor and perform monthly battery checks.
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Plan escape routes and hold regular fire drills—every second counts.
📝 What’s Next
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The official fire investigation will clarify the exact cause.
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Local groups may offer financial and emotional support to the surviving teen and bereaved family.
📸 Photo Descriptions (above carousel):
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Interior damage: Burned furnishings and structural damage inside the Caluag home.
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Funeral setup: Coffins arranged in preparation for the family’s final rites.
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Family tribute: A memorial collage featuring the four victims.
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Firefighters in action: Silhouetted figures combating the blaze during the operation.
Final Thoughts
The loss suffered by the Caluag family is immeasurable, and the incident starkly reminds us of the unseen dangers of neglected electronic devices. May their passing spur a renewed commitment to fire safety in every household.