APRIL 29, 2016

NR # 4185B

Modernization of Bureau of Fire Protection pushed

Party-list lawmakers have filed a bill to modernize the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) for a
more effective response to fire alarms in both the financial districts and residential areas.
MAGDALO Party-list Reps. Gary C. Alejano and Francisco Ashley L. Acedillo said House
Bill 6383 or the Fire Protection Modernization Act of 2015 mandates the acquisition of modern
equipment, which shall constitute the main thrust of the Fire Protection Modernization Program
(FPMP).
The proposed measure also aims to establish fire stations and Emergency Medical Services
(EMS) in all local government units (LGUs).
The increased economic activity in the country has set aside safety standards and prevention
measures that will prevent, mitigate and lessen industrial and residential accidents caused by fire.
Hopefully this bill will institutionalize the BFP modernization program, said Alejano.
The FPMP shall be implemented for a period of three years and shall establish a Fire
Protection Service (FPS) to all local government units without existing fire protection services.
An amount of P8 billion shall be allotted coming from the income of Philippine Charity
Sweepstakes Office (PCSO), Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) and from
the General Appropriations Act immediately preceding the effectivity of this Act.
Under the bill, the program shall establish specialized fire protection and services for high-rise
building fires, forest fires, airport and ship fires, chemical fires, disaster rescue services and EMS.
Moreover, FPMP shall upgrade fire protection equipment, and establish training facilities
including personnel development program from internationally accredited training consultants and
advisers if experts of equal qualification cannot be obtained locally.
In terms of contracts and agreement, the Secretary of Interior and Local Government may
enter into multi-year contracts, lease-purchase agreements or other contractual agreements with local
or foreign suppliers.
The contracts shall be favorable to the government and are subject to approval of the
President under provisions of existing laws and regulations including from the Commission on Audit
(COA).
Alejano said the Chief Fire Marshall should submit an annual report containing the process of
the implementation of the FPMP to the President and Congress through the SILG.
Lastly, a special fund shall be created under BFP solely for the retirement, disability and death
benefits for members and scholarship for dependents. (30) nap