Manila, Jan. 15 -- The fire that razed the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Cordillera regional office originated from its Financial Management Records room, the local Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) said Thursday.

In a media interview, City Fire Marshal Mark Anthony Dangatan said a utility worker saw smoke coming from the room at the building's ground floor and reported the incident at about 5:25 p.m.

He said the utility worker immediately alerted the security personnel and drivers. They attempted to put out the fire using four 10-lbs fire extinguishers.

Dangatan said the agency's personnel continued their efforts to put out the fire until the Baguio City Fire Station personnel arrived at the scene and took over the fire...