A quiet sense of grief and concern spread this week after the Philippine Embassy in Switzerland confirmed that a Filipino was injured in a deadly fire that broke out at a resort bar in Crans-Montana on New Year’s Day.
In a brief statement released Monday, the embassy said it could not share further details about the injured Filipino — honoring the family’s request for privacy. The information, it added, came directly from Swiss authorities, and so far, no other Filipino casualties have been reported.
Still, the message carried weight.
“Our thoughts go out to the injured Filipino,” the embassy said, “and we are praying for their recovery.”
Behind the scenes, help is already moving.
The Department of Foreign Affairs confirmed that the Philippine Embassy remains in close coordination with Swiss officials and is ready to extend all necessary assistance to the victim and their family during this painful time.
The fire erupted at around 1:30 a.m., just as revelers were celebrating the arrival of the New Year. What began as a night of music and joy quickly turned into tragedy.
At least 40 people lost their lives, while around 100 others were injured. Authorities later revealed that teenagers as young as 14 and 15 years old were among the victims — a detail that shocked the community and the world.
Investigators believe the fire started when “fountain candle” sparklers were raised too close to the ceiling inside the Constellation bar, igniting the blaze. Flames spread fast. Panic followed.
In total, 119 people suffered injuries, many with severe burns. Victims were rushed to hospitals across Switzerland and even transferred to burn units around Europe as doctors fought to save lives.
As families wait for answers, police continue the heartbreaking task of identifying the dead and injured.
Meanwhile, two individuals who managed the bar are now under criminal investigation, facing possible charges including homicide by negligence.
For now, prayers remain with the victims — including the Filipino hurt far from home — as families cling to hope amid a tragedy that forever changed the start of a new year.
