MANILA, Jan. 21 (Xinhuanet) -- A large fire has razed the flea market of Boracay Island in the central Philippines and is threatening to burn down nearby resorts and restaurants on the renowned island resort area.

    As of writing time, the fire is still not yet under control, however, no casualties have been reported so far, the ABS-CBN news channel reported Friday.

    Local official Charlie Blanza said they have asked for help from the Mactan Airbase in Cebu for helicopters that can help put out the fire, but said it would take at least an hour for the helicopters to arrive. The island has only one fire truck.

    The fire started around 6:30 p.m. (1030 GMT) from the exit of the flea market leading to the access road 200 m from the beachfront, he said.

    An hour later, the fire has already reached the beachfront area,said Blanza.

    There are around 150 stores in the flea market, known as the Talipapa. It is a popular destination for tourists for souvenirs, beachwear, eateries, and grocery stores. It is ringed by at least 15 popular resorts and restaurants.

    Lara Salaver, president of the Boracay Foundation Inc. said thefire could not be contained because of strong winds.

    Salaver said restaurant and resort owners and their workers have started dousing structures with water to prevent the fire from spreading. Enditem