Hundreds of Vendors Lose Livelihood in Santa Cruz Market Fire; Tearful Gov-Elect Sol Aragones Vows Support

**** by: Edjun Mariposque

****

May 23, 2025

3–4 minutes

Santa Cruz, Laguna — Over 200 vendors were left devastated after a massive fire swept through the Santa Cruz Public Market early Friday morning, May 23, at around 5:50 AM. The blaze quickly engulfed the market, leaving behind nothing but ashes of newly stocked merchandise—mostly school supplies such as uniforms, notebooks, fabrics, plastic pails, and containers—meant for the upcoming school year.

Many of the vendors rushed to the scene upon hearing of the fire, only to find their stalls already reduced to ruins. Some wept openly, unable to contain their grief as they recalled the capital they had just released for what was supposed to be one of their busiest seasons.

Governor-elect Sol Aragones, visibly emotional and unable to hold back her tears, personally visited the site alongside Mayor-elect Benjo Agarao, Congressman-elect Benjie Agarao, and Board Member-elect Jam Agarao. The group of newly elected officials, who will officially assume office on June 30, promised immediate assistance to the fire victims.

“This is a tragedy no one deserves,” Aragones said, her voice breaking. “We will do everything we can to help our fellow Lagunenses recover from this.”

The fire was declared under control by 9:40 AM. The Bureau of Fire Protection is continuing its investigation into the origin of the blaze and the full extent of the damages.

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