The Baguio City Fire Station recently reported to the city government its significant milestones that have greatly enhanced the abilities of firefighters in their service to the residents from January to July this year.
Senior Fire Officer 4 Tado S. Pakilo, officer-in-charge of the Baguio City Fire Station Operations Section, said that from March to July this year, some 6,665 fire safety inspection certificates were already issued by the said office while it was also able to evaluate and issued fire clearances for 252 building plans.
He claimed that this number represents a substantial increase from previous periods where there were a lesser number of fire inspection certificates and fire clearances issued.
The BCFS official said that the local fire station collected PhP6.6 million in fire code fees which have greatly contributed to the national fund with a portion being returned to the city government.
According to him, their accomplishment highlights the commitment of the Baguio City Fire Station to the conduct of thorough inspections and a proactive approach to fire safety compliance across various sectors.
During the same period, firefighters reportedly responded to some 185 medical emergencies and 46 fire incidents where they have worked tirelessly, managing each situation with the utmost professionalism and care, thus minimizing the impact of the incidents to the community.
Pakilo extended the Baguio City Fire Station’s profound gratitude to the support of the city government in procuring a water tanker fire truck through the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund which is currently in the pre-bidding process.
Further, he claimed that the approval of the supplemental budget for the repair of four fire trucks was granted by the local legislative body through the City General Services Office.
He pointed out that the vital enhancements will significantly improve the fire station’s response time and operational efficiency, ensuring that firefighters are better equipped to handle emergencies effectively.
Pakilo emphasized that their commitment to community safety extends beyond emergency response as firefighters have actively engaged in outreach and educational initiatives, establishing community fire auxiliary groups in five barangays.
Moreover, the fire station personnel had conducted fire safety seminars and training sessions for 28 private establishments and 22 government entities during the second quarter of the year.
For the third quarter, Pakilo explained that the fire station launched three out of six new programs, including, Tanong Mo, Sagot Ko Live, an online platform designed to answer questions from viewers; Bombero Challenge, an initiative inviting civilian participants to learn about firefighting skills, basic life support and more and Newest Bravest Paladin, a program showcasing the firefighters’ heroic acts.
The fire officer noted that these programs are part of the station’s preventive measures, reflecting a comprehensive approach to fire safety for the residents. By Dexter A. See
