BUTUAN CITY — A woman was arrested after allegedly setting her father’s house on fire in Barangay Pinamanculan, Butuan City, following a reported family dispute involving claims that she had repeatedly borrowed money, according to initial accounts of the incident.
The fire broke out shortly after 3 p.m. at Purok 3, Higad, on November 5, 2026, destroying the residential property owned by Tumayo “Natoy” Angao, a resident of the area.
Barangay Kagawad Hermoso said witnesses identified the victim’s daughter, known by the alias “Rowena,” as the alleged person responsible for starting the fire.
Based on the accounts gathered by barangay officials, Rowena reportedly entered the kitchen before proceeding toward one of the rooms. She was later seen leaving the house carrying a bag containing personal belongings.
Approximately 10 minutes after she left, flames reportedly engulfed the house, raising suspicion that the fire had been deliberately set.
Authorities subsequently pursued the woman after she allegedly attempted to leave the area aboard a multicab, reportedly heading toward Nasipit. Her attempted escape was cut short when police officers intercepted her in the municipality of Buenavista.
Personnel of Butuan City Police Station 3 (BCPS 3) apprehended the suspect, who was subsequently brought into police custody.
According to the initial report, Rowena reportedly admitted involvement in the incident. A lighter was also found inside the bag she was carrying, which authorities are considering as possible evidence in the investigation.
Police are continuing their investigation, while the appropriate criminal charges, including possible violation of laws against arson, are being evaluated.
Meanwhile, the incident has left the victim without a home, prompting local officials to extend assistance to the affected resident.
Barangay Kagawad Hermoso expressed gratitude to City Councilor Carlo Sanchez for providing assistance to the fire victim and his family, acknowledging the support extended by the councilor and his staff.
The incident underscores the devastating consequences of domestic disputes, particularly when personal disagreements escalate into acts that threaten lives, destroy property, and leave families struggling to rebuild.
The police investigation is expected to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident and determine the appropriate legal accountability.