BFP to return fire trucks to LGUs

CEBU, Philippines - The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) is determined to take over the fire trucks donated by the provincial government to different local government units in the Province of Cebu.

BFP officials led by Provincial Fire Marshall Esmael Codilla yesterday appeared before the pre-caucus session of the Provincial Board to explain the guidelines in handling the fire trucks.

Among the concerns raised was the fear among LGUs concerned of not getting back the fire truck once it is taken over by the BFP.

This prompted PB Member Peter John Calderon to suggest that the Province of Cebu would donate first the unit to concerned LGU and the BFP shall then deal with them individually.

“Wala’y problema, but we have to deal so many people and local government units, di na directly sa provincial government,” Codilla said.

Codilla explained that having all fire stations with fire trucks under BFP would increase firefighting capabilities.

The Province of Cebu has 30 fire trucks assigned to different component cities and municipalities.

Codilla said the BFP will address the lack of said facilities in other municipalities.

PB Member Grecilda Sanchez who chairs the committee on provincial and municipal properties agreed the suggestion to donate the units to LGUs.

“We will donate to individual LGU so that they will then coordinate with the BFP,” Sachez said.

Among the requirements set by BFP is for the LGU to provide the lot where the fire station will be built. The BFP will provide the personnel and the maintenance of the fire trucks.

“The idea there is to equip the whole province with good and functional fire trucks,” Sanchez added.  (FREEMAN)