A 75-year-old church choir member, Josephine Pineda, died after returning to her burning home in Paombong, Bulacan, to retrieve church collection money during a fire that destroyed four houses.

Elderly Woman Dies After Re-Entering Burning House to Save Church Funds in Paombong

A tragic fire in Paombong claimed the life of a 75-year-old woman who reportedly returned to her burning home in an attempt to save church collection funds entrusted to her care.

Authorities identified the victim as Josephine Pineda, a member of the Marian Choir at the Parish of Santiago Apostol. According to the Bureau of Fire Protection in Paombong, the blaze broke out shortly after 10 a.m. on March 10, 2026, inside a family compound in the town’s Poblacion area.

Fire Destroyed Four Homes

Fire officials said the flames spread quickly and destroyed four houses in the compound, many of which were built using light materials. The fire reportedly burned for more than 30 minutes before firefighters managed to bring it under control.

Investigators said Pineda had already exited the house safely but went back inside to retrieve church collection money she was responsible for safeguarding. Sadly, she never made it out.

Family members believe she may have been overcome by smoke or struck by falling debris during the fire.

Family Shares Heartbreaking Details

Cristina Bagtas, Pineda’s niece, said a 19-year-old cousin who was with the elderly woman tried to stop her from returning to the burning house. Despite the warnings, she rushed back inside to secure the funds.

The young relative attempted to follow her in an effort to help but was forced to retreat as the flames intensified.

Firefighters Faced Access Challenges

The Bureau of Fire Protection reported receiving the alarm at about 10:43 a.m., and the blaze was declared under control around 11 a.m. However, responders encountered difficulties reaching the homes due to a narrow entryway leading into the compound.

Additional fire trucks from nearby areas, including Malolos and Hagonoy, were dispatched to assist in containing the fire and preventing it from spreading to nearby government facilities.

Cause of Fire Under Investigation

Authorities say the cause of the fire remains under investigation, though early reports suggest it may have started from a small backyard fire on a neighboring property.

Pineda’s death has deeply saddened her family and the local church community, who remember her as a devoted choir member and faithful servant of the parish.