CEBU, Philippines — Over 100 firefighters from all over Central Visayas are in Cebu to compete in the annual Bureau of Fire Protection Olympics.
Seven teams with 18 members each showcase their talents and skills in firefighting and rescue operations to be on top of their game in the two-day competition that started yesterday. The seven participating teams are from Siquijor, Negros Oriental, Bohol, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu City, Cebu North, and Cebu South. The best team will get a trophy and a cash prize.
BFP–7 director Senior Supt. Samuel Tadeo said the activity is part of the observance of the Fire Prevention Month. He said the olympics also serve as additional training for firemen in responding to different situations.
“Ito bale tinitingnan ang skills at strength ng ating mga tauhan para makita natin kung well-coordinated ba iyung mga galaw nila just in case sa mga sunog natin ay maganda ang koordinasyon nila,” Tadeo said.
He added that the activity also strenghtens the camaraderie among firemen.
In the past few days, at least three big fire incidents hit Cebu – two in Lapu-Lapu City and one in Minglanilla.
Tadeo said he will meet all the fire marshals in the region to discuss their plans and programs.
“Ano ang ginagawa nilang actions sa mga nasasakupan nila. Kung bakit ganito, ganyan, malalaki ang mga sunog sa atin,” Tadeo said.
He also urged the public to be vigilant and keep fire hazard materials like matches away from children.
“Bilin sa mga kababayan natin na bantayang maigi ang mga batang naglalaro talaga kasi kapabayaan talaga iyon. Sana isa-puso din natin, ang fire prevention month ay hindi lang gagawin ng March kundi ito ay whole year round dapat ang gagawin nating pag-iingat, kabilin-bilinan ng BFP na mag-ingat sa sunog,” Tadeo said. —FPL (FREEMAN)